Work - Volume 57, issue 3

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172571

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 309-309, 2017

Authors: Béguin, Pascal | Duarte, Francisco

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172572

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 311-313, 2017

Authors: Seppänen, Laura

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sustainable development requires learning, but the contents of learning are often complex and ambiguous. This requires new integrated approaches from research. It is argued that investigation of people’s learning challenges in every-day work is beneficial for research on sustainable development. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the paper is to describe a research method for examining learning challenges in promoting sustainable development. This method is illustrated with a case example from organic vegetable farming in Finland. METHODS: The method, based on Activity Theory, combines historical analysis with qualitative analysis of need expressions in discourse data. …RESULTS: The method linking local and subjective need expressions with general historical analysis is a promising way to overcome the gap between the individual and society, so much needed in research for sustainable development. CONCLUSIONS: Dialectically informed historical frameworks have practical value as tools in collaborative negotiations and participatory designs for sustainable development. The simultaneous use of systemic and subjective perspectives allows researchers to manage the complexity of practical work activities and to avoid too simplistic presumptions about sustainable development. Show more

Keywords: Organic vegetable farming, activity theory, contradictions, need expressions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172564

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 315-324, 2017

Authors: Coquil, Xavier | Dedieu, Benoît | Béguin, Pascal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While farming in France and generally in Europe is continuing to intensify, at the expense of its environmental sustainability, promising alternatives are emerging. OBJECTIVE: The processes whereby farmers change and transform their own work, to shift from an intensive mode of production to a self-sufficient and autonomous one, need to be formalized if we are to further our understanding of why and how these forms of sustainable farming activity emerge. METHODS: We use the development of professional worlds theory, a systemic representation of workers’ activity, whereby their experience is formalized. This can be explained as …the praxis1 , conceptual and axiological underpinnings form a system with the object of the action. The development of a professional world is analyzed according to the evolution of its components and the search for pragmatic coherence within it. We analyzed professional transitions towards self-sufficient and autonomous mixed farming through a case study. RESULTS: Our findings showed that the transition is initiated by the discovery of the unthinkable, awareness of a discrepancy between what the farmers think and what they do, the appearance of problems, and the response to external constraints. Professional transition is a non-teleological and non-incremental process; it corresponds to a comparison with reality, and a resolution of difficulties. This process is stimulated by the use of artifacts instrumented by the farmers. CONCLUSION: New perspectives are opened up by this formalization of transitions, in terms of (i ) support towards sustainable farming and (ii) the design of sustainable farming systems. Show more

Keywords: Professional transition, design, self-sufficiency, autonomy, mixed farming

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172565

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 325-337, 2017

Authors: Meyer, Felipe | Eweje, Gabriel | Tappin, David

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The sustainability of the workforce is threatened due to working conditions. One of the reasons for this is an imbalance between the working conditions and the capacity of the workers. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the paper, based on a literature review, is to explore the relationship between two main concepts, beginning with sustainability, and finished with ergonomics. Based on that relationship, determine if ergonomics could be helpful to improve the sustainability of the workforce. METHODS: Literature review was based on two keywords: sustainability and ergonomics. The focus was on create a theoretical path between these …two concepts. The literature review draws on 100 journal articles, books, conference proceedings, thesis and reports. RESULTS: The results of the literature review highlights that an ergonomics approach is helpful and appropriate to determine the mismatch between people capacity and system demand. In that sense, the literature review reveals that both disciplines, ergonomics and sustainability, share the same principles and that the mix of both has significant potential. However, the literature also shows a lack of empirical information that proves that potential. CONCLUSION: The review first posits that sustainability principles could be helpful to improve the working conditions, and second, that an ergonomics approach provides information related with working conditions, organizations’ problems and the needs of workers that would be helpful to create a sustainability workforce. Show more

Keywords: Sustainability, workforce sustainability, occupational health problems, working conditions and ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172563

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 339-350, 2017

Authors: Mendes, R.W.B. | Pueyo, V. | Béguin, P. | Duarte, F.J.C.M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This research was conducted in the Brazilian granite mining sector. After epidemiological studies, it was established that professional pneumoconiosis is related to the inhalation of dust. Therefore, the Brazilian mining health and safety regulatory standard made it compulsory to provide humidification throughout the extraction and mineral treatment processes. OBJECTIVE: To develop the concept of systemic appropriation of the technological innovations that aim to protect the worker’s health. Until now, appropriation has usually been presented in its individual dimensions. In this article, the focus is placed on the collective and organizational aspects of this appropriation. METHODS: …Two methodological approaches were used: interviews with the different individuals involved in order to report the history of the implementation of technical devices which meet the humidification norm; and ergonomic analysis of the work of the operators who used these devices. RESULTS: The appropriation of the technical devices occurred at two distinct levels: 1) Individual, related to the direct contact of the operator with the instrument; 2) Systemic, as the effects of the innovation propagated through the system affecting interdependent tasks, adaptation of the work organization and new production strategies. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of prevention norms require innovations which are necessarily accompanied by transformations in the companies’ techniques, work and management. Show more

Keywords: Appropriation, innovation, work, prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172566

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 351-361, 2017

Authors: Lima, Francisco de Paula Antunes | de Oliveira, Fabiana Goulart

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Alternatives are being developed for waste treatment all over the world. Solidary selective collection is a recognized social technology for taking millions of people out of absolute poverty. However, this technology raises crucial questions regarding its nature and development perspective. What can be said of the legitimacy of a social technology that is born from misery and maintains wastepickers in precarious work conditions? OBJECTIVE: This article approaches issues based on the analysis of the wastepickers’ work process, highlighting the difficulties and interpersonal conflicts, the strong social bonds and creativity that reveal the potential of efficiency and solidarity …of this social technology. METHODS: The analyses are founded on empirical descriptions of work situations and organizational arrangements that the wastepickers themselves have developed. The observations were made during the work, followed by interviews focused on significant events and behaviors. RESULTS: The contradiction between efficiency and solidarity, which excludes workers from the formal labor market, finds in the associations a solution for people with different capacities. This social technology offers much more than simple survival or exoticism. The wastepickers create a sustainable mode of production, putting together economic, social and environmental criteria in an innovative and fair production technology. Show more

Keywords: Waste management, sorting, social economy, social technology, reverse hierarchy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172562

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 363-377, 2017

Authors: Bittencourt, João Marcos | Duarte, Francisco | Béguin, Pascal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Integrating work activity issues into design process is a broadly discussed theme in ergonomics. Participation is presented as the main means for such integration. However, a late participation can limit the development of both project solutions and future work activity. OBJECTIVE: This article presents the concept of construction of experience aiming at the articulated development of future activities and project solutions. It is a non-teleological approach where the initial concepts will be transformed by the experience built up throughout the design process. METHODS: The method applied was a case study of an ergonomic participation during …the design of a new laboratory complex for biotechnology research. Data was obtained through analysis of records in a simulation process using a Lego scale model and interviews with project participants. RESULTS: The simulation process allowed for developing new ways of working and generating changes in the initial design solutions, which enable workers to adopt their own developed strategies for conducting work more safely and efficiently in the future work system. CONCLUSIONS: Each project decision either opens or closes a window of opportunities for developing a future activity. Construction of experience in a non-teleological design process allows for understanding the consequences of project solutions for future work. Show more

Keywords: Participatory ergonomics, work, co-design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172567

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 379-387, 2017

Authors: López-Arquillos, Antonio | Rubio-Romero, Juan Carlos | López-Arquillos, Concepción

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Accidents in the construction sector are a cause for concern. The influence of many different factors in construction accidents have been studied (age, company size, length of service, deviation, drugs or alcohol consumption, etc.) but the influence of medicinal substances in specific construction activities has not been evaluated until now. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the research presented here is to identify the effect of different medicinal substances on the occupational risk levels of construction activities with formworks. METHODS: An expert panel was selected in order to quantify the individual risk of each medication for each …individual construction activity. RESULTS: Results showed that narcotics, antipsychotics, and hypnotics had the highest risk values, and the use of cranes and cutting materials were considered the most dangerous activities for a medicated worker. CONCLUSIONS: Data obtained in this research can help reduce the negative effects of the substances studied on the occupational safety of construction workers. A better knowledge of the risk levels according to the current capabilities of workers under the effects of medication is a powerful tool in planning safer construction activities. Show more

Keywords: Substance, accident, factor, activity, safety

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172573

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 389-395, 2017

Authors: Torenbeek, Marjolein | Peters, Velibor

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Teacher retention and development of the full potential of teachers is important at a national level in order to be able to belong to the top world economies. A number of studies suggests that part of the group of experienced teachers with more than 20 years of experience perform didactically at a lower level than would be expected and are at a greater risk for attrition. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to find explanations for this by making use of the Job Demands Resources Model. METHODS: Specific demands of the teaching profession, …interpersonal demands related to the developmental stage of experienced teachers, job resources and personal resources in relation to health and motivation are explored by reviewing a vast amount of literature. RESULTS: The proposed conceptual model is an extension of the Job Demands Resources Model with the inclusion of personal demands related to adulthood and personal resources. CONCLUSIONS: The resulting model provides us with clues on how attrition and decreased performance could be counteracted. Show more

Keywords: Job Demands Resources Model, health, motivation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172575

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 397-407, 2017

Authors: Buys, Nicholas | Wagner, Shannon | Randall, Christine | Harder, Henry | Geisen, Thomas | Yu, Ignatius | Hassler, Benedikt | Howe, Caroline | Fraess-Phillips, Alex

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Organizational culture has received increasing attention in terms of its influence on workplace health and productivity, yet there has been little research on its relationship with employer-based disability programs. OBJECTIVE: This study explored the relationship between disability management and organizational culture in Australian and Canadian organizations. METHODS: Thematic analysis was conducted on data from semi-structured interviews with 16 employees, including injured workers, human resource managers and disability managers in two Australian and two Canadian large organizations. RESULTS: Seven themes were identified: 1. Consistency between espoused beliefs and artifacts in organization; 2. Genuineness of …interest in well-being of injured worker; 3. Level of ongoing support of worker following injury; 4. Communication with injured workers; 5. Level of support from supervisors and co-workers; 6. Promptness in claims processing and covering medical costs and; 7. Focus on wellness and injury prevention. It was found that organizational culture may impact the delivery and perceived value of employer-based disability management programs. CONCLUSIONS: Given the potential relationship between organizational culture and disability management, employers should facilitate a positive workplace culture by ensuring consistency among underlying values, espoused values and actual treatment of employees, including injured workers. Show more

Keywords: Injured workers, workplace, espoused values, artifacts

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172568

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 409-419, 2017

Authors: Narimoto, Lidiane Regina | Camarotto, João Alberto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Design in use and inventiveness are key concepts in ergonomics. It is well-known that users design but is not explored in the literature how they manage to do that. OBJECTIVE: This paper aims to contribute to the discussion of how users actually design, by showing a research conducted in sugar cane harvesting in Brazil and in Australia. METHODS: Through the methodology of the Ergonomic Work Analysis (EWA), the design modifications made by the harvesting teams were identified as well as their elaboration process. RESULTS: Three categories of modifications in machines’ design were identified: …structural, functional and operational and they were more numerous in Brazilian situations. It is proposed that two theories underlying the theme are intertwined: the instrument-mediated activity approach and the design as bricolage. CONCLUSIONS: It is argued that users design through the articulation of: a) the operators’ activity, b) the mechanical technicians’ inventory to practice bricolage as a way of designing and c) the work organisation and the existence of social spaces of interaction between these two subjects. Show more

Keywords: Design in use, bricolage, instrumental genesis, inventiveness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172574

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 421-432, 2017

Authors: Bergomi, Margherita | Modenese, Alberto | Ferretti, Enrica | Ferrari, Angela | Licitra, Giuseppe | Vivoli, Roberto | Gobba, Fabriziomaria | Aggazzotti, Gabriella

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Several studies have shown that professional drivers are at risk of developing work-related stress. Stress may be responsible for a variety of adverse effects and may also be associated with an increased number of accidents. OBJECTIVE: Perform an integrated, objective and subjective evaluation of work-related stress in bus drivers, that also considered the role of personality traits. METHODS: Salivary α-amylase and cortisol were measured in 42 bus drivers. Subjective stress evaluation was performed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Driver Stress Inventory (DSI). To evaluate personality traits, we administered the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised (EPQ-R) …and the Impulsivity Inventory (IVE). RESULTS: Salivary biomarkers showed no associations with PSS-10 and personality traits. Cortisol levels were positively correlated with fatigue (r  = 0.44) at the middle of the work-shift and with aggression (r  = 0.51) at the end of a day off. At the end of the work-shift, cortisol levels were negatively correlated with hazard monitoring (r  = –0.37) and salivary α-amylase was positively correlated with thrill-seeking (r  = 0.36). Neuroticism (β= 0.44) and impulsiveness (β= 0.38) were predictors of perceived stress by multiple regression. CONCLUSIONS: An integrated method, considering both objective and subjective indicators, seems adequate to evaluate work-related stress in professional drivers. Personality traits are relevant in determining perception of stress. Show more

Keywords: Occupational stress, biological monitoring, personality trait, accident prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172581

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 433-440, 2017

Authors: Deng, Mingming | Wu, Feng | Wang, Jun | Sun, Linyan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Human factors comprise one of the important reasons leading to the casualty accidents in coal mines. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships among musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), personality traits, psychological distress, and accident proneness of coal miners. PARTICIPANTS: There were 1500 Chinese coal miners surveyed in this study. Among these miners, 992 valid samples were obtained. METHODS: The study surveyed the MSDs, personality traits, psychological distress, and accident proneness of coal miners with MSDs Likert scale, Eysenck personality questionnaire, Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) scale, and accident proneness questionnaire, respectively. …RESULTS: The highest MSDs level was found in the waist. The increasing working age of the miners was connected with increased MSDs and psychological distress. Significant differences in MSDs and psychological distress of miners from different types of work were observed. Coal miners with higher MSDs had higher accident proneness. Coal miners with higher neuroticism dimension of Eysenck personality and more serious psychological distress had higher accident proneness. Phobic anxiety, paranoid ideation and psychoticism dimension of psychological distress were the three most important indicators that had significant positive relationships with accident proneness. CONCLUSION: The MSDs, neuroticism dimension, and psychological distress of the coal mine workers are important to work safety and require serious attention. Some implications concerning coal mine safety management in China were provided. Show more

Keywords: Coal mine safety, physiological health, personality traits, psychological distress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172569

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 3, pp. 441-449, 2017