Work - Volume 55, issue 3

Authors: Sakagami, Yu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Job environments have been fundamentally changed by globalization and modern technological innovation. Qualitative workload is expected to increase more than quantitative workload through this rapid technological innovation. Especially, in developed countries, qualitative workload is expected to become a primary job-related stress factor in the near future. Therefore, it is essential to clarify the characteristics of qualitative workload and to determine how to cope with it effectively. OBJECTIVES: Since job stress level and ego aptitude are correlated and qualitative overload increases stress, we examined qualitative overload and ego aptitude among male Japanese cutting-edge science researchers. METHODS: …The Brief Job Stress Questionnaire and the Tokyo University Ego-gram New Version II were distributed to all workers at two Japanese academic institutions. RESULTS: Qualitative overload and adult ego aptitude, representing rationalism, were higher in male researchers than in the Japanese male general sample. In addition, adapted child aptitude, representing obedience, was lower in male researchers. Lack of supervisor support was positively associated with qualitative overload, and nurturing parent ego aptitude was negatively associated with it. CONCLUSIONS: Male researchers had higher levels of qualitative overload. Increasing supervisor support is essential in decreasing this qualitative overload. Furthermore, enhancement of nurturing parent ego aptitude (i.e., careful consideration for others) is also important for qualitative overload management. Show more

Keywords: Job stress, qualitative overload, mental disorders, occupational health, work environment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162427

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 585-592, 2016

Authors: Hoefsmit, Nicole | Boumans, Nicolle | Houkes, Inge | Nijhuis, Frans

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This is a process evaluation of an intervention to improve Cooperation regarding return-to-work (RTW) between sick-listed employees and their supervisors (COSS, which consists of a conversation roadmap, monitoring of cooperation using questionnaires and, if necessary, extra support by an occupational physician (OP). OBJECTIVE: Objectives were to study (1) the adoption of COSS by a banking organization and (2) its implementation among individual employees, supervisors and OPs. METHODS: We used quantitative data (online questionnaire, project administration, conversation minutes, emails) and qualitative data (semi-structured interviews). We analyzed quantitative data descriptively (by calculating sum scores, percentages, mean scores and standard …deviations). The coding system to analyze the qualitative data was data-driven. RESULTS: The organization’s representatives reported positively (e.g. fit with existing policy) and negatively (e.g. high intensity) about COSS. At least one OP (out of five) used the monitoring information. Project administration data show a modest reach of COSS among employees and supervisors. The roadmap was used by a minority (35% of the employees and 25% of the supervisors). Relatively many (40% of the employees and 100% of the supervisors who used COSS to evaluate conversations) were satisfied with COSS as a  tool to evaluate conversations with the employee/supervisor afterwards. Interview results indicate that the roadmap was considered useful in specific situations (e.g. psychological complaints). All employees and supervisors participated in the monitoring. The majority of the responding employees and supervisors received OP support and was satisfied about this support. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the good adoption of COSS by the organisation, it was only partially implemented by professionals, employees and supervisors. We hypothesize that our implementation approach did not fit completely with the culture at the bank. Also, the results illustrate the need for other intervention methods for improving cooperation between employees and supervisors and a more specific target population. Show more

Keywords: Sick leave, sickness absence, implementation, work resumption

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162431

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 593-603, 2016

Authors: Pau, Massimiliano | Leban, Bruno | Fadda, Paolo | Fancello, Gianfranco | Nussbaum, Maury A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Quay crane operators are specialized in moving containers to and from vessels while adopting constrained sitting postures for prolonged periods (4–6 consecutive hours) in a very challenging environment. Thus, they are exposed to discomfort or pain that may result in deterioration of their performance with consequent reduction of operational safety levels. Such discomfort can be indirectly and partially assessed by measuring contact pressure at the body-seat interface. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility, usefulness, and effectiveness of monitoring the variations in seat-body interface pressure during a regular work shift of 4 …hours performed in a simulated environment. METHODS: Eight professional operators performed a four-hour shift in a realistic control station set inside a quay crane simulator. Seat-body contact pressures were measured at 10 Hz using two pressure-sensitive mats placed on the seat pan and the backrest. Raw pressure data were processed to extract pressure vs. time curves related to the whole seat surface and, for the seat pan only, values associated with four anatomical regions (i.e. left and right thighs and buttocks). RESULTS: During the work shift, the mean backrest pressure was low and fairly constant. Seat pan pressure increased by 10%, rising from 7.4 (1.5) to 8.2 (2.3) kPa over the simulated shift. Detailed analysis of the four sub-regions revealed that as the trial progressed the mean contact pressure on buttocks decreased (–6% at the end of the trial) while thigh pressures increased (by 10 and 20% for right and left sides, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Although further studies with larger samples are needed, long-term monitoring of the body-seat contact pressures of crane operators in a simulated environment appears to be a useful tool to identify specific postural strategies to reduce discomfort originated by prolonged sitting posture. Show more

Keywords: Sitting posture, discomfort, posture, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162434

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 605-611, 2016

Authors: Skivington, Kathryn | Lifshen, Marni | Mustard, Cameron

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND : Comprehensive workplace return-to-work policies, applied with consistency, can reduce length of time out of work and the risk of long-term disability. This paper reports on the findings from a qualitative study exploring managers’ and return-to-work-coordinators’ views on the implementation of their organization’s new return-to-work program. OBJECTIVES: To provide practical guidance to organizations in designing and implementing return-to-work programs for their employees. METHODS : Semi-structured qualitative interviews were undertaken with 20 managers and 10 return-to-work co-ordinators to describe participants’ perspectives on the progress of program implementation in the first 18 months of adoption. The study was …based in a large healthcare organization in Ontario, Canada. Thematic analysis of the data was conducted. RESULTS : We identified tensions evident in the early implementation phase of the organization’s return-to-work program. These tensions were attributed to uncertainties concerning roles and responsibilities and to circumstances where objectives or principles appeared to be in conflict. CONCLUSIONS : The implementation of a comprehensive and collaborative return-to-work program is a complex challenge. The findings described in this paper may provide helpful guidance for organizations embarking on the development and implementation of a return-to-work program. Show more

Keywords: Return to work, employment, sick leave, organizational innovation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162437

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 613-624, 2016

Authors: Beales, Darren | Mitchell, Tim | Pole, Naomi | Weir, James

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Biopsychosocially informed education is associated with improved back pain beliefs and positive changes in health care practitioners’ practice behaviours. OBJECTIVE: Assess the effect of this type of education for insurance workers who are important non-clinical stakeholders in the rehabilitation of injured workers. METHODS: Insurance workers operating in the Western Australian workers’ compensation system underwent two, 1.5 hour sessions of biopsychosocially informed education focusing on understanding and identifying barriers to recovery of injured workers with musculoskeletal conditions. Back pain beliefs were assessed pre-education, immediately post-education and at three-month follow-up (n  = 32). Self-reported and Injury Management …Advisor-reported assessment of change in claims management behaviours were collected at the three-month follow-up. RESULTS: There were positive changes in the Health Care Providers’ Pain and Impairment Relationship Scale (p  = 0.009) and Back Beliefs Questionnaire (p  = 0.049) immediately following the education that were sustained at three-month follow-up. Positive changes in claims management behaviours were supported by self-reported and Injury Management Advisor-reported data. CONCLUSION: This study provides preliminary support that a brief biopsychosocially informed education program can positively influence insurance workers’ beliefs regarding back pain, with concurrent positive changes in claims management behaviours. Further research is required to ascertain if these changes result in improved claims management outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Workers’ compensation, musculoskeletal, claims manager, injury management advisor

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162428

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 625-633, 2016

Authors: Gomez-Parra, Myrna | Romero-Arrieta, Lydis | Vasquez-Trespalacios, Elsa Maria | Palacio-Jaramillo, Veronica | Valencia-Martinez, Andrea

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Shift work is common in health care settings and has been hypothesized as a risk factor for being overweight or obese. We examined the relation between shift work and being overweight or obese, adjusting for stress and lifestyle habits in Colombian health care workers. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the association between shift work and being overweight/obese in employees of a health care setting in Medellin, Colombia. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 200 workers in a health care setting. Participants completed a demographic, occupational, work-related stress and …life style questionnaire. Their Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist to hip ratio were also measured. RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 160 (80%) females and 40 (20%) males. Mean age was 35.1±9.1 years and mean BMI was 25±3.9. After adjusting for potential confounders, multivariate logistic regression revealed no statistically significant association between being overweight, being obese or waist to hip ratio and shift work; 95% CI OR: 1.08 (0.62–1.89), 1.33 (0.44–3.99) and 1.2 (0.8–1.9), respectively. Day workers were statistically more likely to smoke, work more hours, and have a higher educational level than shift workers. CONCLUSIONS: No significant associations between shift work and being overweight/obese were observed in health care workers in a Colombian setting. These findings need to be confirmed through longitudinal studies. Show more

Keywords: Working-time arrangements, body mass index, stress, weight, waist to hip ratio

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162438

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 635-642, 2016

Authors: Reiman, Arto | Sormunen, Erja | Morris, Drew

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Heavy mining vehicle operators at arctic mines have a high risk of discomfort, musculoskeletal disorders and occupational accidents. There is a need for tailored approaches and safety management tools that take into account the specific characteristics of arctic work environments. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to develop a holistic evaluation tool for heavy mining vehicles and operator well-being in arctic mine environments. METHODS: Data collection was based on design science principles and included literature review, expert observations and participatory ergonomic sessions. RESULTS: As a result of this study, a systemic …checklist was developed and tested by eight individuals in a 350-employee mining environment. CONCLUSIONS: The checklist includes sections for evaluating vehicle specific ergonomic and safety aspects from a technological point of view and for checking if the work has been arranged so that it can be performed safely and fluently from an employee’s point of view. Show more

Keywords: Design science, occupational health and safety, operator, participatory ergonomics, work system

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162425

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 643-653, 2016

Authors: Nurul, Ainun Hamzah | Shamsul, Bahri Mohd Tamrin | Noor Hassim, Ismail

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Steel manufacturing produces dust, fumes, and pollutant gases that may give adverse health effects to the respiratory function of workers. Improper occupational hygiene practice in the workplace will affect both workers wellbeing and productivity. OBJECTIVE: To assess the level of particulate matter [(PM2.5 , PM10 , and Total Particulate Matter (TPM)], and trace metal dust concentrations in different sections of a steel plant and compare with the occupational exposure values. METHODS: The work environmental parameters of the particulate matters were evaluated using Indoor Air Quality, while metal dust concentrations were measured using portable personal …air sampler. A total of 184 personal samples were randomly collected from workers in three major sections; steel making plant, direct reduced plant, and support group. Trace metal dust concentrations were subjected to wet mineral acid mixture digestion and analysed by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). RESULTS: The overall average PM2.5 concentration observed was varied according to the section: steel making plant was 0.18 mg/m3 , direct reduced iron plant was 0.05 mg/m3 , and support plant was 0.05 mg/m3 . Average PM 10 concentration in steel making shop (SMS) plant, direct reduced (DR) plant, and support plant were 0.70 mg/m3 , 0.84 mg/m3 , and 0.58 mg/m3 , respectively. The average TWA8 of trace metal dusts (cobalt and chromium) in all the sections exceeded 1 to 3 times the ACGIH prescribed values, OSHA PELs, NIOSH RELs as well as USECHH OSHA, whereas TWA8 concentration of nickel for each section did not exceed the occupational exposure values. CONCLUSIONS: The average PM2.5 , PM10 and TPM did not exceed the prescribed values, while average trace metal dust concentration TWA8 for cobalt and chromium in all plants exceeded occupational exposure prescribed values. However, the nickel found did not exceed the prescribed values in all the plants except for NIOSH RELs. Show more

Keywords: Particulate matter, trace metal dust, personal air sampling, steel plant

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162433

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 655-662, 2016

Authors: Bubric, Katherine | Hedge, Alan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Laptop computers have surpassed desktop computers in popularity, especially among college student users. The portability of these devices raises concerns regarding healthy usage patterns in different settings and there is a need to investigate the postures with which these devices are being used and associated reports of musculoskeletal discomfort. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the configurations in which laptops are used and the prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort associated with laptop use in a survey of college students. The purpose of this was to identify differences in discomfort and/or postural choice between males and females. METHODS: A sample of …90 male and 96 female college students completed an online questionnaire consisting of demographic questions, musculoskeletal discomfort indicators and questions regarding configurations of laptop use. RESULTS: Over 53% of participants reported experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort while using a laptop computer, with females reporting a higher prevalence of neck discomfort (p  = 0.05) and shoulder discomfort (p  = 0.006) than males. Participants reported using a laptop most commonly in positions at a  desk and on a bed. Females were more likely than males to use a laptop on a bed with the computer positioned on their lap or with their legs crossed (p  < 0.05). Males were more likely than females to work in positions necessitating a large trunk deviation to operate the laptop (p  < 0.05), such as “sitting on a  sofa with your feet on the floor (knees at 90°), bending over to use laptop that is resting on a  coffee table or ottoman in front of you”. CONCLUSIONS: A significant proportion of college students report experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort associated with laptop computer use. Sex differences exist in both choice of configurations and musculoskeletal discomfort associated with laptop use. Due to the portability of laptop computers, they are used in a variety of configurations and environments. This study identifies a number of different ways that laptop computers are used that have not been considered in previous research. These patterns of laptop use can be used to inform future work on the impact of technology use on discomfort. Show more

Keywords: Sex, gender, posture, computer, injury, notebook computers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162419

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 663-671, 2016

Authors: Phonpichit, C. | Chansirinukor, W. | Akamanon, C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Carrying a load in hand is commonly seen in daily life. There were many studies investigating the optimal weight when carrying a backpack, however, only a few studies investigated optimal weight when carrying a bag in different ways. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the optimal weight for carrying a handbag. METHODS: This study involved 13 healthy females, randomized into four carrying weight patterns [no load, bag weight of 5% body weight (BW), 7% BW, and 10% BW] who were walking barefoot on the platform at preferable speed. The center of pressure (COP) was collected by the platform. Spinous processes of C7, …T1, T12, L1, S2 and the right tragus were attached with markers. The muscle activities of upper trapezius, erector spinae, and rectus abdominis muscles were measured. All data including discomfort scale were recorded. RESULTS: The spinal curvature was not affected from carrying a handbag. However, the COP trend was toward the carrying side when carrying a greater load. Asymmetrical activities of the upper trapezius and erector spinae were shown (p  < 0.05). The discomfort areas were the right upper trapezius and right finger flexor muscles. CONCLUSIONS: Continuously carrying a handbag greater than 10% BW can cause musculoskeletal problems. Show more

Keywords: Bag, optimal weight, center of pressure, spinal curvature, symmetry

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162429

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 673-678, 2016

Authors: Richert-Kaźmierska, Anita | Stankiewicz, Katarzyna

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-life balance is a priority of EU policies but at the same time demographic change affects the labour market. Employers have to deal with the ageing of their employees and adjust human resource management to maintain their competitiveness. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the article is to answer research questions: whether the age of workers determines their assessment of the work-life balance, and whether there is a relationship between the worker’s age and their assessment of the activities undertaken by their employer to provide them with work-life balance. METHODS: The article is based on the …results of surveys conducted among 500 employees of the SME sector from Finland, Lithuania and Sweden. RESULTS: The results identified a statistically significant difference: employees representing older age groups are more likely to indicate the maintenance of WLB; older workers more frequently do not agree that all workers have equal opportunities to benefit from flexible solutions aimed at ensuring the maintenance of WLB. CONCLUSIONS: The results can be the inspiration for the decisions and actions of employers in the field of personnel management and for creating workplace conditions encouraging senior workers to continue working, even upon becoming entitled to old-age pension. Show more

Keywords: Work-life balance, aging workforce, workers’ assessment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162435

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 679-688, 2016

Authors: Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Studies exploring the views of occupational therapists about the vocational rehabilitation models of practice related to individuals with brain injury are limited. The views of occupational therapists regarding the use of vocational rehabilitation are important in the development of successful vocational rehabilitation programmes. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of occupational therapists regarding the use of the model of occupational self-efficacy. PARTICIPANTS: Five occupational therapists participated in the study. METHODS: The research study was positioned within the qualitative paradigm specifically utilizing an exploratory and descriptive …research design. In order to gather data, semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant. RESULTS: Two themes emerged from the findings of the study. One theme reflected the barriers related to the use of the model, i.e. Theme one: Challenges related to the use of the model. The second theme related to the enabling factors related to the use of the model, i.e. Theme two: The model as an enabler of work skills. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicated that the Model of Occupational Self Efficacy (MoOS) is a useful model to use in retraining the work skills of an individual with brain injury. The participants in this study could maintain employment in the open labour market for a period of at least 12 months and it improved their ability to accept their brain injury as well as adapt to their worker roles. The MoOS also provides a  framework for facilitating work integration. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, return to work, traumatic brain injury

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162440

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 689-701, 2016

Authors: Rinaldi-Miles, Anna I. | Das, Bhibha M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Worksites provide an ideal environment for physical activity (PA) interventions. Colleges and universities are a unique work venue, with institutions of higher education of varying scope within every state of the United States and worldwide. OBJECTIVE: To explore the institutional influences on worksite PA across multiple universities. PARTICIPANTS: Employees from two large, universities (Midwestern and Southern) and a mid-size, university (Midwestern) participated in exploratory research in March/April 2010 and 2013. METHODS: The Nominal Group Technique (NGT) methodology and the Health Belief Model …(HBM) were used to assess perceived influences on employees’ engagement in worksite PA. RESULTS: The findings demonstrate that university employees experienced similar factors that influence PA as employees across the different institutions. Specifically, there was an interesting relationship between opportunities for PA and lack of a supportive work culture to promote it. CONCLUSIONS: Emphasis on immediate perceived threats to PA inactivity may improve the utility of the HBM for interventions within this context. Further, campus worksite interventions for employees should address barriers such as cost of campus recreation centers and administrative support for engaging in worksite PA as possible cues to action. Show more

Keywords: Health Belief Model, Nominal Group Technique, worksite wellness, work culture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162426

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 703-713, 2016

Authors: Assunção, Ada Ávila | de Medeiros, Adriane Mesquita | Pinheiro, Tarcísio Márcio Magalhães

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sick leave can be envisaged as an important public health indicator. Health problems and trouble at work are predictors of absenteeism. OBJECTIVE: Within the context of reforming the judicial system, the aim of this study was to examine whether individual characteristics and working conditions influenced reports of sick leave amongst a population of Brazilian magistrates. METHODS: A web-based survey was conducted in 2011 in such a way as to reach the entire population of Brazilian Labor-law magistrates across the country. The variable of interest related to the question: “Have you taken any medical leave due to …illness over the last 12 months?” RESULTS: Less than a quarter of the population participated in the survey, despite widespread publicity produced by the professional association. Among the work-related factors, experiences of violence in the courthouse were shown to be associated with the outcome. No significant association with the material or psychosocial working conditions or with the workload was found. Female, worse health assessment, not participating in social activities and having a mother with higher schooling level were significantly associated with absenteeism among the magistrates. CONCLUSION: It is desirable to formulate sectorial policies focusing on controlling and monitoring violent events in the courthouse. Show more

Keywords: Judges, working conditions, judicial sector, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162432

Citation: Work, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 715-724, 2016