Work - Volume 53, issue 4

Authors: de Carvalho, Maitê Peres | Schmidt, Lídia Garcia | Soares, Maria Cristina Flores

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dockworkers are subjected to intense physical labor which leads to frequent occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to measure the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) of temporary dockworkers and its influence on their quality of life. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study developed with temporary dockworkers in Brazil. Recruitment was done by inviting workers when they presented themselves for work at the trade union. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the Short-Form Health Survey were used. The association between the outcome and the different investigated factors was analyzed through Poisson Regression with …robust variance. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the data from the Short-Form Health Survey scale among the groups both with and without work-related musculoskeletal disorders. RESULTS: The sample was composed of 318 temporary dockworkers with a mean age of 48 years. WMSD prevalence was 37.4%. WMSD was associated with not practicing physical activity (PR = 2.03; p  = 0.005), participation in housework (PR = 1.88; p  = 0.029), taking care of preschool children (PR = 1.65; p  <  0.000) and handling heavy objects (PR = 1.83; p  = 0.007). The lumbar spine was the most frequently mentioned area of the body (22.5%) in the WMSD analysis. Workers without WMSD had higher (p  <  0.00) quality of life scale scores in relation to functional capacity, physical and social aspects, pain and vitality. CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight the relevance of developing action plans regarding the needs of this specific population of workers, especially concerning the reduction of risk factors. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, work-related musculoskeletal disorders, cumulative trauma disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162249

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 805-812, 2016

Authors: Abaraogu, Ukachukwu Okoroafor | Ezema, Charles Ikechukwu | Igwe, S.E. | Egwuonwu, Afamefuna Victor | Okafor, Udoka Chris

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Back pain has been identified as a common cause of disability in the working population. Automotive mechanics habitually use awkward back posture in their course of manual activity and hence may be at risk of work-related back pain. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence, pattern and severity of back pain among automotive maintenance mechanics, as well as the personal and job variables associated with or predicting occurrence of back pain. METHOD: Using a cross-sectional design, information about self-reported back pain and the associated variables were collected among 684 randomly recruited automotive mechanics. RESULT: Prevalence …of back pain was 76.02%; with the majority experiencing low back pain. 63.3% of the workers reported they limited their activity due to the back pain. Older workers (>50 years), daily work lasting ≥5 hours duration, no more than primary education, being normal weight, frequent use of kneeling and sustained postures, and lack of knowledge of ergonomic postures were associated with increased prevalence of back pain. Lack of job autonomy, inadequate task clarity, heavy physical work load, manual material handling, strenuous posture, noisy environment, vibrations, work schedule and inadequate auxiliary support were also associated with increased prevalence of back pain among the mechanics. CONCLUSION: Work-related back pain is prevalent among automotive maintenance mechanics. Work-related back pain is high among automotive maintenance mechanics. Workstation policy and legislation on reduction of risks with combined health literacy and ergonomic education programs in this occupational group are imperative. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal risk, back pain, manual handling, automobile servicing and repair

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162247

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 813-823, 2016

Authors: de Cordova, Pamela B. | Bradford, Michelle A. | Stone, Patricia W.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Shift workers have worse health outcomes than employees who work standard business hours. However, it is unclear how this poorer health shift may be related to employee work productivity. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the relationship between shift work and errors and performance. METHODS: Searches of MEDLINE/PubMed, EBSCOhost, and CINAHL were conducted to identify articles that examined the relationship between shift work, errors, quality, productivity, and performance. All articles were assessed for study quality. RESULTS: A total of 435 abstracts were screened with 13 meeting inclusion criteria. Eight …studies were rated to be of strong, methodological quality. Nine studies demonstrated a positive relationship that night shift workers committed more errors and had decreased performance. CONCLUSIONS: Night shift workers have worse health that may contribute to errors and decreased performance in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: After-hours, efficiency, productivity, safety

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162250

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 825-834, 2016

Authors: Gladman, Beverley | Waghorn, Geoff

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: High non-participation in the labour force and unemployment remain challenging for adults with serious mental illness. OBJECTIVES: This study examined the personal experiences of people with serious mental illness when seeking, obtaining and maintaining competitive employment. The aim was to increase understanding of personal experiences of employment and how these experiences can be used to inform the assistance provided in support of clients’ competitive employment goals. METHODS: Qualitative data from a two-year period were thematically analysed from one participating site in a multi-site trial of employment services integrated with public funded community mental health treatment …and care. RESULTS: Both positive and negative themes arose. Positive themes included: Aspirations for a better life, receiving feedback on good job performance, employment displacing preoccupation with illness, and employment improving self-esteem and reducing financial stress. Negative themes included stigma experiences, stress, and health difficulties. Both positive and negative experiences did not depend on type of employment service assistance nor key client characteristics such as age, sex, and diagnostic category. CONCLUSIONS: Despite its many benefits, employment can also increase the risk of negative personal experiences. These findings suggest that employment service providers could do more to assist people who commence employment, to reduce the risk of negative personal experiences and to enhance the benefits of competitive employment. Show more

Keywords: Employment, psychiatric disability, personal experiences, stigma, disclosure

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162252

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 835-843, 2016

Authors: Petit, Audrey | Mairiaux, Philippe | Desarmenien, Arnaud | Meyer, Jean-Pierre | Roquelaure, Yves

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Manual material handling remains a major cause of occupational accidents and diseases in various sectors and occupations. OBJECTIVE: This paper summarizes the main recommendations of the good practice guidelines of the French Society of Occupational Medicine for the risk assessment for back disorders in workers exposed to manual handling of loads. METHODS: The guidelines were written by a multidisciplinary working group of 24 experts, according to the Clinical Practice Guidelines method proposed by French National Health Authority, and reviewed by a multidisciplinary peer review committee of 50 experts. Recommendations were based on a large systematic …review of the international literature carried out from 1990 to March 2012 and classified (Grade A, B, C or expert consensus) according to their level of evidence. RESULTS: The main recommendations are a three-level hierarchical method of risk assessment based on participatory ergonomics and suggested assessment tools that can be used routinely by professionals of occupational health, workers themselves and their supervisors. CONCLUSION: These French guidelines are intended for professionals of occupational health in charge of the prevention of low back disorders. The recommended methods are applicable to other countries than France. Show more

Keywords: Low back injury, hierarchical rating method, guidelines, lifting hazard

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162258

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 845-850, 2016

Authors: Mehrdad, R. | Mazloumi, A. | Arshi, S. | Kazemi, Z.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGOUND: Work ability is an important issue from a social point of view, as it is essential for workers health and welfare. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine work ability among healthcare personnel and to investigate its relationship with demographic and lifestyle-related factors. METHODS: Data were collected using the Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaire among 517 personnel of a hospital in Tehran, Iran. RSULTS: Findings showed a mean WAI of 40.3 (±5.2) for the study population. Work ability was significantly lower in the older personnel and higher for men. A significant correlation was observed …between BMI and exercise activity and WAI score. Moreover, employees with experience of less than five years had significant higher work ability than those with 16–20 years of service. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the young study population, it seems the mean WAI is not as desirable. The use of lifestyle promoting programs, besides workplace interventions, can be an effective strategy to increase work ability among healthcare workers. Show more

Keywords: WAI, work demand, lifestyle, Ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162277

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 851-857, 2016

Authors: Mache, Stefanie | Bernburg, Monika | Groneberg, David A. | Klapp, Burghard F. | Danzer, Gerhard

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: These days physicians’ work is characterized by an increase in economic demands, pressure and challenges in establishing a balance between work and family life. The current study investigates the relationship between physicians’ job demands and resources, perceived job stress, work-family conflict, work engagement and job satisfaction. METHODS: 564 clinicians specialising in different medical fields participated in the cross-sectional study. Self-administered questionnaires, including the COPSOQ and the UWES- Scale were administered. RESULTS: Our results illustrated significant relationships between physicians’ work engagement and their job satisfaction as well as between job stress and work family conflict. Moreover, …perceived job stress moderated the effect of high job demands on work family conflict. In addition, significant gender differences have been found in perceived stress levels, work family conflict and work engagement. CONCLUSION: This study proves and verified associations between work engagement, work-family conflict, job demands and resources that may influence employees’ satisfaction. Implications for both working physicians and hospital management are given. Show more

Keywords: Job demands, job satisfaction, motivation, resources, stress, work-life balance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162257

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 859-869, 2016

Authors: Viotti, Sara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Correctional officers (COs) are exposed to various factors likely to jeopardize their health and safety. Even if numerous studies have been focused on work-related stress among COs, few studies have been carried out in Italy. OBJECTIVE: Indentify the work-related factors and comprehend how they negatively affect the COs’ psychological health in the Italian penal system. METHODS: A qualitative approach was employed. Twenty-eight COs employed in a detention block of an Italian jail were interviewed face-to-face. For the analyses of the text, Template Analysis technique was followed. RESULTS: The analyses of the text highlighted …six macro-categories and thirteen categories hierarchically linked to them: A) Intrinsic work-related factors with six categories: demanding contact with prisoners, high level of responsibility, health risks, critical events, lack of intellectual and social stimulation, and conflict value; B) Factors related to the type of contract and work organization: challenging working hours contrasted with social time, and relocation; C) Social factors: relationships with colleagues and hierarchy; D) Organizational factors: organizational injustice, E) External factors: negative social image; F) Physical environmental factors: physical structure of the prison building. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that COs are at high risk of stress. More specifically, the analyses highlighted that the most stressful part of the COs’ job concerns their relationship with the inmates. Show more

Keywords: Occupational risk factors, occupational health, jail, template analysis, italy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152238

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 871-884, 2016

Authors: Yuwanich, Nuttapol | Sandmark, Hélène | Akhavan, Sharareh

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational stress has been a health-related issue among nurses for many decades. Emergency department nurses are frequently confronted with occupational stress in their workplace; in particular, they encounter stressful situations and unpredictable events. These encounters could make them feel more stressed than nurses in other departments. Research considering occupational stress from the perspective of Thai emergency department nurses is limited. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore nurses’ perceptions of occupational stress in an emergency department. METHODS: A qualitative approach was used to gain an understanding of nurses’ experiences and perceptions regarding stress in their workplace. …Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Twenty-one emergency department nurses working in a public hospital in Thailand were interviewed, and the data were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS: The findings comprised three themes: (1) perceived stress, (2) consequences of stress, and (3) stress management. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study can be used by hospital management to help them adopt effective strategies, such as support programs involving co-workers/supervisors, to decrease occupational stress among emergency department nurses. Future research that explores each of the themes found in this study could offer a more comprehensive understanding of nurses’ occupational stress in the emergency department. Show more

Keywords: Stressor, workplace, nursing profession

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152181

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 885-897, 2016

Authors: Chan, Alan H.S. | Tsang, Steve N.H. | Hoffmann, Errol R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lever-operated taps have become more popular and are commonly used in operating theatres, food preparation areas and where users have poor strength; however, there is very little data available for user expectations on tap operation. Thus, an experiment on dual lever-operated water tap (faucets) was conducted with the aim of for providing information for improved design. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare different lever-tap designs and their stereotypes adopted by the end-user to operate them also to verify the stereotypes for increasing or decreasing the water flow. METHODS: 240 participants were requested to rotate the …lever tap to indicate direction for increasing and decreasing water flow with simulated hardware, using actual taps placed at the top of a simulated washbasin. Nine initial positions of the lever were used for increasing and decreasing flows, ranging from the ends of both levers facing outward from the bowl center to the ends of both levers facing inward. All levers operated in the horizontal plane. RESULTS: Strong stereotypes (greater than 80%) for several initial lever orientations were found for increasing water flow, especially when the initial lever end positions were facing outwards. However, for different initial positions at which participants were told that the water was flowing and the flow was to be decreased, no strong stereotypes existed. CONCLUSIONS: The stereotypes for increasing water flow of dual-lever taps were strong, whereas those for decreasing water flow were weak and hence the stereotype reversibility was also weak. In terms of user expectations, lever taps do not show any great advantage over cross-taps in terms of operator expectations for increasing and decreasing water flow. Show more

Keywords: Lever taps, stereotype strength, increasing/decreasing flow

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162273

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 899-907, 2016

Authors: Seomun, GyeongAe | Pyun, Sung-Bom | Lee, Jung-Ah | Kim, Eun-Jung | Noh, Wonjung

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There are advantages to using digital textbooks, but also health concerns yet to be evaluated. OBJECTIVE: This study examines the use of digital textbooks’ effects on carpal tunnel, considered one of the potential health risks in students using digital textbooks. METHODS: Data were obtained from 43 elementary school students in the sixth grade, selected from two groups who had used digital and paper textbooks, respectively. To assess carpal tunnel function, this study performed median motor nerve and median sensory nerve conduction studies. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the groups, indicating …that there were no functional differences related to carpal tunnel syndrome between the groups. CONCLUSION: Usage of digital textbook is expanding nationwide in the Republic of Korea. There is no short-term risk of carpal tunnel syndrome in this population of elementary school students. Show more

Keywords: Child, digital textbook, school

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162278

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 909-915, 2016

Authors: Chiang, Hsin-yu (Ariel) | Liu, Chien-Hsiou

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Tablet users may be at high risk of developing physical discomfort because of their usage behaviors and tablet design. OBJECTIVE: Investigate the usage of tablets, variations in head and neck posture associated with different tablet tilt angles, and the association of tablet use with users’ musculoskeletal discomfort. METHODS: A survey of users’ subjective perceptions conducted by questionnaire and measurements of users’ postures by a 3D Motion analysis system was used to explore the effects of tablet use. RESULTS: The questionnaire results indicated that over half of the participants reported physical discomfort after using …tablets, with the most prevalent discomfort in the neck and shoulders, and more intensity of discomfort for the back although only few participants experienced it. Chi-squared tests indicated that significantly more participants who tended to use tablet computers to play games reported having musculoskeletal discomfort after using a tablet. In addition, preferences for tablet tilt angles varied across tasks (reading and game playing). The results from the 3D motion analysis revealed that head and neck flexion angles were significantly reduced when the tablets were positioned at relatively steep tilt angles. Neck flexion angle was significantly higher in game playing. CONCLUSIONS: These data add information regarding to the usage of tablet and its associations with physical discomfort (significantly more participants who tended to use tablet computers to play games reported having musculoskeletal discomfort after using a tablet). Steep tilt angles (such as 60°) may cause tablet users to decrease their head and neck flexion angles, which could lead to a more neutral, effortless, and ergonomically correct posture. Maintaining proper neck posture during active activities such as game playing is recommended to avoid neck discomfort. Show more

Keywords: Tablet tilt angle, physical discomfort, head and neck posture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162274

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 917-925, 2016

Authors: Garton, Pam | Murphy, Gregory | O’Halloran, Paul

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychosocial factors have the greatest influence on work rehabilitation outcomes yet effective and efficient systems to manage these factors are not widely utilized in Work Injury Management. OBJECTIVE: To report on the development and validation of a comprehensive assessment tool with practical utility in identifying and measuring the biopsychosocial factors which are barriers to return to work and community. METHODS: Literature search identified many instruments designed to identify the presence of psychosocial factors impacting recovery and return to work following musculoskeletal injury. This research aimed to match assessment with intervention. In clinical practice over a …5 year period, this led to development of a composite questionnaire, the Abilita Rehabilitation Index, which was trialed with 43 adults participating in Occupational Rehabilitation. The validation data are based on the results of 957 case records of Occupational Rehabilitation participants. RESULTS: Examination of Cronbach coefficient alpha of the instrument indicates strong internal consistency (0.90) and factor analysis supports satisfactory construct validity of the domains (subscales) with factor loading scores ranging from 0.73 to 0.90. CONCLUSION: There is evidence that the proprietary Abilita Rehabilitation Index is a valid and reliable instrument to identify and measure the influence of psychosocial factors impacting an individual’s recovery and return to work. Automated reports generated from this tool provide an evidence-based resource to identify risk and support rehabilitation planning in Work Injury Management. Show more

Keywords: Return to work, musculoskeletal disorders, psychosocial factors, pain, biopsychosocial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162276

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 927-937, 2016

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 939-945, 2016

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 947-950, 2016