Work - Volume 52, issue 4

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152199

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 723-724, 2015

Authors: Bishop, Malachy | Rumrill, Phillip D.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This article presents an overview of multiple sclerosis (MS), one of the most common neurological disorders in the Western Hemisphere. We explore the impacts of MS on employment, career development, and community living, and the implications for rehabilitation professionals. OBJECTIVE: The objective in this article is to provide a current and comprehensive review of the etiology and symptoms, incidence and prevalence, and current treatment strategies for MS, and the effects of MS on vocational and psychosocial outcomes. METHODS: This analysis represents a comprehensive review of the relevant medical, vocational, community living, and rehabilitation research literature. …RESULTS: Living with MS is associated with wide-ranging and unpredictable effects on employment, career development, and community independence. Effective responses by health and rehabilitation professionals require a comprehensive understanding of this progressive and complex condition and its psychosocial impacts. CONCLUSIONS: Customized interventions from allied health professionals and rehabilitation counselors that are grounded in the unique features of MS and that reflect current best practices in Vocational Rehabilitation are required to improve rehabilitation outcomes for people with MS. Show more

Keywords: Chronic illness, vocational rehabilitation, allied health, independent living

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152200

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 725-734, 2015

Authors: Rumrill Jr., Phillip D. | Roessler, Richard T. | Li, Jian | Daly, Katherine | Leslie, Mykal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The recent rehabilitation literature does not include a thorough assessment of the employment concerns of people with MS. OBJECTIVE: This article presents descriptive findings from a national survey of the employment concerns of Americans with multiple sclerosis (MS; N  = 1,924), representing nine chapters of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. METHODS: Respondents were asked to evaluate 38 employment concerns items on two dimensions, importance and satisfaction, for the purpose of identifying strengths and weaknesses in the employment policies and practices affecting the labor force participation of people with MS. RESULTS: Results revealed a total …of 32 employment strengths and six employment weaknesses. CONCLUSIONS: In spite of a jobless rate of more than 60 percent, people with MS were satisfied with the majority of employment concerns. Implications of these findings for rehabilitation policy and service delivery are examined. Show more

Keywords: Chronic illness, career development, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152201

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 735-748, 2015

Authors: Chiu, Chung-Yi | Chan, Fong | Edward Sharp, Seneca | Dutta, Alo | Hartman, Ellie | Bezyak, Jill

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship between employment status (no employment, part-time employment, and full-time employment) and functional disability, health-related quality of life, and life satisfaction of people with MS. METHODS: 157 individuals with MS completed a survey packet, including employment status, self-report disability severity, and health-related scales. A series of multivariate analysis of variance was performed to determine the differences between employment groups in health-related outcomes. RESULTS: The unemployed group had the highest levels of incapacity and social impairments among the three groups. They also had the lowest physical health-related quality of life and life satisfaction. …The part-time employed group had the lowest levels of depression and higher levels of physical activity participation among the three groups of individuals with MS. CONCLUSIONS: Employment is significantly related to health-related quality of life, and as a result, it should be considered an important public health intervention for people with MS. Show more

Keywords: Employment, poverty, functional disability, health-related quality of life, multiple sclerosis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152202

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 749-756, 2015

Authors: Bishop, Malachy | Rumrill Jr, Phillip D. | Roessler, Richard T.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This article presents a replication of Rumrill, Roessler, and Fitzgerald’s 2004 analysis of a three-factor model of the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on quality of life (QOL). The three factors in the original model included illness-related, employment-related, and psychosocial adjustment factors. OBJECTIVE: To test hypothesized relationships between QOL and illness-related, employment-related, and psychosocial variables using data from a survey of the employment concerns of Americans with MS (N  = 1,839). METHODS: An ex post facto, multiple correlational design was employed incorporating correlational and multiple regression analyses. RESULTS: QOL was positively related to educational …level, employment status, job satisfaction, and job-match, and negatively related to number of symptoms, severity of symptoms, and perceived stress level. The three-factor model explained approximately 37 percent of the variance in QOL scores. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this replication confirm the continuing value of the three-factor model for predicting the QOL of adults with MS, and demonstrate the importance of medical, mental health, and vocational rehabilitation interventions and services in promoting QOL. Show more

Keywords: Employment, chronic illness, mental health, psychosocial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152203

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 757-765, 2015

Authors: Fong, Mandy W.M. | Lee, Eun-Jeong | Sheppard-Jones, Kathy | Bishop, Malachy

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: For people with multiple sclerosis (MS), limitations in performing activities of daily living can have a significant impact on personal independence, residential safety, and quality of life. In this study we explored the utility of the Home Functioning Scale in identifying home functioning profiles and generating rehabilitation interventions. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine whether distinctive and meaningful home functioning profiles could be identified among adults with MS based on Home Functioning Scale scores. METHODS: Home Functioning Scale scores and additional data from a representative national sample of 3,834 adults were analyzed. …We used cluster analysis and MANOVA to identify and evaluate group differences. RESULTS: Three distinct home functioning profiles emerged in the analysis: (1) minimal impairment (31.1% of participants); (2) moderate impairment (52.4%); and (3) severe impairment (16.5%). The three groups exhibited significant differences on demographic and MS related characteristics, perceived cognitive function, perceived MS impact on physical and psychological function, and life satisfaction. CONCLUSION: The profile characteristics of the identified groups are presented and the implications of the results for rehabilitation practitioners and the investigation of home functioning in activities of daily living are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Cluster analysis, activities of daily living

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152204

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 767-776, 2015

Authors: Lee, Eun-Jeong | Pieczynski, Jessica | DeDios-Stern, Samantha | Simonetti, Camille | Lee, Gloria K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Caregivers of individuals with MS may experience unique caregiver strain due to the age at onset and progressive nature of the disease. Additionally, because MS is more prevalent in women, men often become spousal caregivers. However, gender differences in psychosocial adjustment among caregivers have not been fully explored. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to explore gender differences in the need for various supports and type of social support needed, caregiver strain, and quality of life among caregivers for individuals with MS. METHODS: 106 caregivers participated in this study. Independent sample t -tests and …multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine gender differences in strain, need for supports, social support, and quality of life. RESULTS: Analyses revealed gender difference among important psychosocial variables. Specifically, women reported higher levels of caregiver strain, higher needs for emotional support, and higher perceived social support. Additionally, multiple regression analyses revealed an inverse relationship between expressed emotional needs and quality of life for men, but not for women. CONCLUSIONS: MS caregivers experience significant strain that diminishes quality of life. Social support and needs fulfillment can act to buffer this stress; however, results indicate that this varies by gender, with gender differences observed in strain, perceived support, and expressed needs among MS caregivers. The study implications for rehabilitation research are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Caregiving, gender differences, multiple sclerosis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152205

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 777-787, 2015

Authors: Li, Jian | Fitzgerald, Shawn M. | Bishop, Malachy | Rumrill, Phillip D. | Wang, Fangning

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Due to the extent and complexity of its physical, cognitive, and psychological accompaniments, multiple sclerosis has tremendously negative effects on employment outcomes for adults with the disease. OBJECTIVE: This article extends the current understanding of the relationship between disease-related and functional factors and employment status among adults with multiple sclerosis. METHODS: Findings are reported in terms of descriptive statistics and logistic regression. The logistic regression analysis was completed to determine the extent to which disease-related and functional predictors contributed to the overall prediction model for the employment status of adults with MS. RESULTS: …The combined variables explained approximately 33% of the variance in employment status. In addition to three items of the Psychological subscale and 12 items of the Physical subscale, one of the items from the Cognitive Functioning Scale contributed to the prediction of employment status. CONCLUSIONS: The findings emphasize the importance of including physical, psychological, and cognitive functioning variables when predicting employment status among adults with multiple sclerosis. Show more

Keywords: Multiple sclerosis, employment, cognitive functioning, psychological symptom, physical symptom

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152206

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 789-797, 2015

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152207

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 799-799, 2015

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152209

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 801-801, 2015

Authors: Lin, Lan-Ping | Wu, Tzu-Ying | Lin, Jin-Ding

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is little information about the burnout and wellbeing of institutional caregivers working for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities; information is particularly limited in the understanding of experiences of direct care workers. OBJECTIVE: The aims of the study were to provide a profile of self-perceived burnout and wellbeing of direct-care caregivers working in disability institutions, and to compare the difference between native- and foreign caregivers. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted. We recruited 46 female living assistants of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in two disability institutions in Taiwan. There were 23 subjects …who were local residents and 23 subjects who were foreign providers of labor. A self-administered questionnaire which included scale of the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI), the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were employed in the survey. RESULTS: Findings revealed the local caregivers were slightly higher than foreign caregivers in personal burnout score (PBS) and work-related burnout score (WBS), although there were no significant differences. Those caregivers from foreign countries seem to be slightly happier and have higher life satisfaction than native caregivers. CONCLUSIONS: In order to decrease the burnout and improve wellbeing of caregivers of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, service providers should understand the experiences which caregivers encounter in their workplaces. Caregivers can benefit if they receive appropriate support to improve positive health while working for their service clients. Show more

Keywords: Intellectual disability, developmental disability, burnout, wellbeing, quality of life, happiness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152117

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 803-809, 2015

Authors: Cichocki, Ben

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The therapeutic alliance is associated with outcomes for individuals in psychiatric rehabilitation programs. However, there are no known studies examining factors associated with the alliance in these programs. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether client characteristics associated with the alliance across multiple populations and program types were associated with the alliance for individuals enrolling in a supported employment program. METHODS: Previously collected data were available for 70 individuals served by the single employment specialist in the program. Potential independent variables and the strength of their relationship to the alliance were identified, then further explored using a forward …stepwise logistic regression model. RESULTS: Seventy-three percent of the sample had the highest possible alliance rating. Being older and having a smaller social network size were significantly correlated with a high alliance, but neither remained a predictor of the alliance, controlling for the effects of the other. CONCLUSIONS: Client age and social network size were associated with the initial alliance, though not in a model containing both variables. Low power may have hindered the ability to show additional relationships, and the uniqueness of the program structure limits the generalizability to other programs. Future research should investigate the variables examined further. Show more

Keywords: Serious mental illness, therapeutic relationship, Session Rating Scale

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152107

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 811-824, 2015

Authors: Van Niekerk, Lana | Coetzee, Zelda | Engelbrecht, Madri | Hajwani, Zerina | Terreblanche, Santie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This paper reports on the second phase of a two-phased study that was undertaken to determine the feasibility of supported employment (SE) as a strategy with which to facilitate the employment of persons with disability in competitive work contexts. The study population comprised people with mental disabilities receiving SE in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. OBJECTIVE: To describe the components of SE utilised by persons with mental disability (i.e. psychiatric or intellectual disability) in terms of type and time utilisation patterns over 12 months. METHODS: Criterion sampling, a form of purposive sampling, was used …to identify 29 study participants - 19 with intellectual disability and 10 with psychiatric disability. Data collection commenced for each participant when a work placement had been identified and preparation for such ensued. Data was collected prospectively for a period of 12 months. SE service components utilised by participants were captured using a data capture sheet that was developed for this purpose. RESULTS: Time utilisation indicated a steep downwards trend for both cohorts. The decrease in utilisation of SE service components over a period of one year was more pronounced in the psychiatric disability (PD) cohort, who utilized almost half the total SE services in the first month. CONCLUSIONS: SE services can be considered as a viable option for return to work in resource-constrained environments. Providers of SE services will need to modify approaches in order to meet contextual realities. Show more

Keywords: Vocational rehabilitation, return-to-work, disability, employment equity, reasonable accommodation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152149

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 825-833, 2015

Authors: Frost, D.M. | Beach, T.A.C. | Crosby, I. | McGill, S.M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Linking firefighter injury reporting to general motion patterns may provide insight into potential injury mechanisms and the development of prevention strategies. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the injuries sustained by members of a large Canadian metropolitan fire department over a 5-year span. METHODS: Data were taken from injury reports filed by career firefighters between 2007 and 2011. Injuries were described by job duty, type, body part affected, and the general motion pattern employed at the time of injury (e.g. lifting). RESULTS: Of the 1311 injuries reported, 64% were categorized as sprains and strains (musculoskeletal disorders …–MSDs), the most frequent of which affected the back (32%). Categorized by job duty, 65% of MSDs were sustained while working at the fire station or during physical training-related activities. Only 15% were attributed to fireground operations. Furthermore, the associated job duty could not differentiate the types of injuries sustained; back injuries occurred primarily while lifting, knee injuries while stepping, and shoulder injuries during pushing/pulling-related activities. CONCLUSIONS: Firefighter injuries are not just a fireground problem. Injury causation may be better understood by linking the injury location and type with motion patterns rather than job duties. This information could assist in developing general prevention strategies for the fire service. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, knee injury, lower-back injury, musculoskeletal disorders, prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152111

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 835-842, 2015

Authors: Wanyonyi, Nancy | Frantz, Jose | Saidi, Hassan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) and neck pain are part of the common work-related musculoskeletal disorders with a large impact on the affected person. Despite having a multifactorial aetiology, ergonomic factors play a major role thus necessitating workers’ education. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of ergonomic-related LBP and neck pain, and describe the effect of a knowledge-based ergonomic intervention amongst administrators in Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi. METHODS: This study applied a mixed method design utilizing a survey and two focus group discussions (FGD). A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 208 participants through systematic sampling. A …one hour knowledge-based ergonomic session founded on the survey results was thereafter administered to interested participants, followed by two FGDs a month later with purposive selection of eight participants to explore their experience of the ergonomic intervention. Quantitative data was captured and analyzed using SPSS by means of descriptive and inferential statistics, whereas thematic content analysis was used for qualitative data. RESULTS: Most participants were knowledgeable about ergonomic-related LBP and neck pain with a twelve month prevalence of 75.5% and 67.8% respectively. CONCLUSION: Continual ergonomic education is necessary for adherence to health-related behaviours that will preventwork-related LBP and neck pain. Show more

Keywords: Low back pain, neck pain, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs), posture, exercises

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152133

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 843-854, 2015

Authors: Menon, Balagopal G. | Praveensal, C.J. | Madhu, G.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Job stress is one of the active research domains in industrial safety research. The job stress can result in accidents and health related issues in workers in chemical process industries. Hence it is important to measure the level of job stress in workers so as to mitigate the same to avoid the worker’s safety related problems in the industries. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine the job stress factors in the chemical process industry in Kerala state, India. This study also aims to propose a comprehensive model and an instrument framework for measuring job …stress levels in the chemical process industries in Kerala, India. METHODS: The data is collected through a questionnaire survey conducted in chemical process industries in Kerala. The collected data out of 1197 surveys is subjected to principal component and confirmatory factor analysis to develop the job stress factor structure. RESULTS: The factor analysis revealed 8 factors that influence the job stress in process industries. It is also found that the job stress in employees is most influenced by role ambiguity and the least by work environment. CONCLUSIONS: The study has developed an instrument framework towards measuring job stress utilizing exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. Show more

Keywords: Role ambiguity, role conflict, physical work factors, working environment, structural equation modeling

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152119

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 855-864, 2015

Authors: Weidman, Justin | Dickerson, Deborah E. | Koebel, Charles T.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prevention through Design (PtD), eliminating hazards at the design-stage of tools and systems, is the optimal method of mitigating occupational health and safety risks. A recent National Institute of Safety and Health initiative has established a goal to increase adoption of PtD innovation in industry. The construction industry has traditionally lagged behind other sectors in the adoption of innovation, in general; and of safety and health prevention innovation, in particular. Therefore, as a first step toward improving adoption trends in this sector, a conceptual model was developed to describe the parameters and causal relationships that influence and predict construction …stakeholder “adoption readiness” for PtD technology innovation. METHODS: This model was built upon three well-established theoretical frameworks: the Health Belief Model, the Diffusion of Innovation Model, and the Technology Acceptance Model. Earp and Ennett’s model development methodology was employed to build a depiction of the key constructs and directionality and magnitude of relationships among them. Key constructs were identified from the literature associated with the three theoretical frameworks, with special emphasis given to studies related to construction or OHS technology adoption. RESULTS: A conceptual model is presented. Recommendations for future research are described and include confirmatory structural equation modeling of model parameters and relationships, additional descriptive investigation of barriers to adoption in some trade sectors, and design and evaluation of an intervention strategy. Show more

Keywords: Prevention through Design (PtD), technology adoption, construction, engineering controls

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152109

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 865-876, 2015

Authors: Björn, Catrine | Josephson, Malin | Wadensten, Barbro | Rissén, Dag

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The shortage of nurses in operating room departments (ORs) in Sweden and other countries can lead to reduced capacity and quality in healthcare, as well as more intense work for those on the job. Little is known about what nurses in ORs perceive as crucial for their workplace to be attractive. OBJECTIVE: To capture attractive qualities of nurses’ work in Swedish ORs and take a first step in the process of adapting the Attractive Work Questionnaire for use in a health care context. METHODS: The Attractive Work Questionnaire was completed by 147 (67% ) nurses …in four Swedish ORs. Principal Component Analyses (PCA) were performed to determine the underlying structure of the data. RESULTS: Factors contributing to job attractiveness identified in the area “work conditions” were: relations, leadership, equipment, salary, organisation, physical work environment, location, and working hours ; in the area “work content”: mental work, autonomy and work rate ; and in the area “job satisfaction”: status and acknowledgement . The PCA showed consistency with the original Attractive Work Questionnaire, Cronbach’s alpha varied between 0.57–0.90. CONCLUSIONS: Prominent attractive qualities for nurses’ work in Swedish ORs were possible to identify through the Attractive Work Questionnaire and the results suggest that the questionnaire can be useful in a health care context. Show more

Keywords: Attractive work, employment, health manpower, job satisfaction, nurse retention, nurse shortage, personnel turnover

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152135

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 877-889, 2015

Authors: Vinberg, Stig | Romild, Ulla | Landstad, Bodil J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Leaders and co-workers in Swedish public sector organizations are exposed to demanding psychosocial working conditions; more knowledge about workplace-based interventions in this sector of working life is needed. OBJECTIVE: To compare co-workers’ and leaders’ self-ratings of health and psychosocial working conditions, and investigate how prevention and rehabilitation in Swedish public sector workplaces affects these ratings. METHOD: The longitudinal panel data consisted of 311 individuals (20 leaders, 291 co-workers) at 19 workplaces. Based on questionnaire data, statistical analyses were performed using Mann-Whitney U-Test, pair-wise Spearman correlations, a mixed between-within subjects ANOVA and Friedman’s test. …RESULTS: Results indicate differences in how the leaders and the co-workers judge their health and psychosocial working conditions. Leaders report work content that is more varied and interesting as well as more possibilities for personal development through work, yet they also report more tiredness, concern over managing their work situation and time pressure at work. Comparisons of mean values for used indicators show some improvements after one year, but also several non-significant or negative time trends two years after the interventions were initiated. CONCLUSION: The study provides some support for experienced differences between co-workers’ and leaders’ health and psychosocial working conditions in public sector workplaces, indicating the importance of different workplace-oriented prevention and rehabilitation interventions for these two categories of employees. Show more

Keywords: Female-dominated workplaces, interventions, self-rated health, longitudinal design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152132

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 891-900, 2015

Authors: Woodhall-Melnik, Julia | Cooke, Martin | Bigelow, Philip L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Obesity is a public health concern in North America. Consumption of food prepared outside of the home is often discussed as a contributing factor. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether or not Canadian food service workers are more likely to have high Body Mass Indices (BMIs) as compared with the general population, and to examine factors that contribute to BMI in this population. METHODS: Analyses of secondary survey data from Cycle 5.1 of the Canadian Community Health Survey were performed. Descriptive statistics were generated to examine food service workers’ risk of having above normal BMI compared to …other Canadians. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors contributing to variation in BMI among food service workers. Analyses were stratified by age. RESULTS: Canadian food service workers are less likely to have BMIs in the overweight and obese ranges than the general population. Stratification by age demonstrated that this decreased risk can be attributed to the fact that food service workers tend to be younger than the general population. As age increases among food service workers, the odds of having a BMI in the overweight and obese ranges increases. CONCLUSIONS: Food service workers in general were not at higher risk for high BMI, but those between the ages of 41 and 64 are at higher risk of having a BMI in the overweight or obese ranges. The findings suggest that proximity to food service outlets may not be the most salient factor in explaining BMI. Show more

Keywords: Food service work, overweight, obesity, Body Mass Index, social determinants of health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152101

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 901-909, 2015

Authors: Li, Kai Way | Wang, Chien Wen | Yu, Ruifeng

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Manual materials handling (MMH) tasks are common. They are considered major contributors of musculoskeletal injuries and are the sources of financial burden for industries in terms of lost work days and worker compensation costs. One-handed carrying is common and could result in arm fatigue. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to establish predictive models for one-handed carrying strength considering weight handed and handedness conditions. METHODS: Twenty male subjects were recruited for the study. The subject carried a weight of 6 or 12 kg using either dominant or non-dominant hand lasting a time period of 0, …0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4 minutes. RESULTS: The results showed that handedness (p  <  0.0001), weight (p  <  0.05), and time period (p  <  0.0001) were all significant factors affecting single arm carrying strength. Predictive models of single arm carrying strength were established under handedness and weight conditions. The MADs of these models ranged from 0.39 to 2.19 kgf. CONCLUSION: The exponential function based predictive models may be adopted to describe the single arm carrying strength with reasonable predictive errors. The trend of the carrying strength after carrying a load for a certain period may be employed to describe muscular fatigue for sustained carrying tasks. Show more

Keywords: Muscular fatigue, fatigue parameter, predictive model, musculoskeletal injury

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152155

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 911-919, 2015

Authors: Kiernan, Matthew D. | Repper, Julie | Arthur, Antony

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The British Army has over 100 career employment groups to which recruits may apply. The Infantry is one of these career employment groups; it accounts for 25% of the overall strength. It is of concern that Infantry recruit attrition within the first 12 weeks of training remains consistently above 30% . Poor selection methods that lead to the enlistment of unsuitable recruits have negative financial and personal consequences, but little is known about the personal experiences of those who fail. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research was to understand why infantry recruits choose to leave and explore …the personal experiences of those that fail. METHODS: This study draws on qualitative data from the second phase of a larger mixed method study. The foci of this paper are the findings directly related to the responses of recruits in exit interviews and their Commanding Officers’ training reports. An exploratory qualitative, inductive method was used to generate insights, explanations and potential solutions to training attrition. RESULTS: What the data describes is a journey of extreme situational demands that the recruits experience throughout their transition from civilian life to service in the British Infantry. It is the cumulative effect of the stressors, combined with the recruit being dislocated from their established support network, which appears to be the catalyst for failure among recruits. CONCLUSION: There are clearly defined areas where either further research or changes to current practice may provide a better understanding of, and ultimately reduce, the current attrition rates experienced by the Infantry Training Centre. Show more

Keywords: Work place stress, work environment, recruitment, qualitative analysis, British Army, military, training attrition

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152208

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 921-934, 2015

Authors: Dropkin, Jonathan | Moline, Jacqueline | Power, Paul M. | Kim, Hyun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Risk factors among Emergency Medical Service (EMS) workers are difficult to characterize and inconsistencies remain about their main health problems. OBJECTIVES: To identify main work-related health problems among EMS workers in the United States; identify risk factors at the organizational, task, and exposure level; identify prevention strategies; examine these issues between participants (EMS workers and supervisors). METHODS: Two types of qualitative research methods based on grounded theory were used: in-depth interviews with emergency medical technicians/paramedics (EMS workers) and focus groups (EMS workers and supervisors). RESULTS: Most participants reported similar health problems (musculoskeletal injuries) …and the task related to these injuries, patient handling. Participants also reported similar physical exposures (ascending stairs with patients and patient weight). For organization/psychosocial factors, participants agreed that fitness, wages, breaks, and shift scheduling were linked with injuries, but overall, perceptions about these issues differed more than physical exposures. Lack of trust between EMS workers and supervisors were recurrent concerns among workers. However, not all organizational/psychosocial factors differed. EMS workers and supervisors agreed pre-employment screening could reduce injuries. Participants identified micro- and macro-level prevention opportunities. CONCLUSIONS: The grounded theory approach identified workers’ main health problems, and the organizational factors and exposures linked with them. Perceptions about work organization/psychosocial exposures appeared more diverse than physical exposures. Prevention among all participants focused on mechanized equipment, but EMS workers also wanted more organizational support. Show more

Keywords: Interviews, focus groups, low back pain, exposures, organizational factors, primary prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152139

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 935-951, 2015

Authors: Chinnery, Amanda E.

Article Type: Research Article

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152240

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 953-954, 2015

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 955-960, 2015

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 4, pp. 961-964, 2015