Work - Volume 60, issue 2

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182740

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 169-170, 2018

Authors: Mula, Allison

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: There has been a recent trend in the integration of sit-stand option desks in the work place. Fear-based advertising insinuating that sitting is the health equivalent of smoking has pervaded many work environments. As workers want to remain healthy and pain free, and employers want and need a healthy workforce, it appears that there is a pervasive trend of avoiding sitting as often as possible. Because work tasks that call for an extensive amount of sitting are often times computer-based, this ‘standing is healthy’ fad is most notably presenting itself at computer-based work stations. The understandably perceived simple fix …to the dilemma of sitting, has been the introduction of the sit-stand desk. However, before we all throw out our chairs, it is important to discuss the past and recent research that indicates that prolonged standing can also have detrimental effects on the human system. It is crucial that we expand our idea of a healthy work environment to one that facilitates movement and change in position and empowers the worker to understand their role in their own musculoskeletal and physiological health and wellness, beyond the use of equipment. If we can replace the phrase, ‘sitting is the new smoking’ with the phrase, ‘sedentary is the new smoking’, then we can elucidate the idea of what a healthy computer-based work environment and routine would be. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, workplace ergonomics, occupational therapy, standing desks, sedentary behavior, health and wellness, preventative care, workplace health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182736

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 171-174, 2018

Authors: Carlstedt, Anita Björklund | Brushammar, Gunilla | Bjursell, Cecilia | Nystedt, Paul | Nilsson, Gunilla

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: With a growing share of older people in almost every population, discussions are being held worldwide about how to guarantee welfare in the immediate future. Different solutions are suggested, but in this article the focus is on the need to keep older employees active in the labor market for a prolonged time. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to find out and describe the incentives at three system levels for older people 1) wanting, 2) being able, and 3) being allowed to work. MATERIAL: The literature search embraced articles from the databases Scopus, PsycInfo, Cinahl, AgeLine and …Business Source Premier, from May 2004 until May 2016. After the removal of 506 duplicates, the selection and analysis started with the 1331 articles that met the search criteria. Of these, 58 articles corresponded with the research questions. METHOD: The design was a ‘scoping review’ of the research area bridge employment and prolonged work life. RESULTS: The results show that most investigations are conducted on individual-level predictors, research on organizational-level predictors is more scattered, and societal-level predictor information is scarce. CONCLUSIONS: Attitudes and behavior according to a prolonged work life could be summarized as dependent on good health, a financial gain in combination with flexible alternative working conditions. Show more

Keywords: Career jobs, organizational levels, old workforce, older employees, self-employed

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182728

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 175-189, 2018

Authors: Shariat, Ardalan | Cardoso, Jefferson Rosa | Cleland, Joshua A. | Danaee, Mahmoud | Ansari, Noureddin Nakhostin | Kargarfard, Mehdi | Mohd Tamrin, Shamsul Bahri

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Malaysian office workers often experience Musculoskeletal Discomfort (MSD) which is typically related to the low back, shoulders, and neck. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to examine the occurrence of lower back, shoulder, and neck pain among Malaysian office workers. METHODS: 752 subjects (478 women and 274 men) were randomly selected from the Malaysian office workers population of 10,000 individuals. The participants were aged between 20–50 years and had at least one year of work experience. All participants completed the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Instructions to complete the questinnaire were given to the …participants under the researchers supervision in the morning before they started a day of work. The participants were then classified into four categories based on body mas index (BMI) (BMI:≤18.4, 18.5–24.99, 25–29.99, ≥30) and age (Age: 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, ≥50). RESULTS: There was a significant association between pain severity in gender and right (p  = 0.046) and left (p  = 0.041) sides of the shoulders. There was also a significant association between BMI and severity of pain in the lower back area (p  = 0.047). It was revealed that total pain score in the shoulders was significantly associated with age (p  = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study demonstrated that a significant correlation existed between pain servity for gender in both right and left shoulder. These findings require further scientific investigation as do the identification of effective preventative stratgies. Show more

Keywords: Physical pain, musculoskeletal discomfort, Cornell questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182738

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 191-199, 2018

Authors: Heuser, Cara C. | Gibbins, Karen J. | Herrera, Christina A. | Theilen, Lauren H. | Holmgren, Calla M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physician satisfaction is linked to positive patient outcomes. Mothers form an increasing fraction of the obstetrics and gynecology (ob/gyn) workforce. OBJECTIVE: Define factors that affect physician satisfaction among ob/gyn physicians who are also mothers. METHODS: We constructed and validated a Redcap survey and invited members of online ob/gyn-mom groups to participate. Characteristics of participants’ professional and personal lives were evaluated for possible association with the satisfaction outcomes. Comparison testing was performed using Chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables, Student’s t -test for parametric variables, and Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test for non-parametric variables. …RESULTS: Responses were received from 232 participants. A majority reported being unsatisfied with their time to spend with children (66%), partner (70%), and on personal hobbies/activites (75%). Eighty-percent rate professional morale as very/somewhat positive. Women who rated their morale as very/somewhat positive worked fewer hours per week than women with neutral/negative responses (43.6 vs 49.7, p  = 0.01). Women with positive morale were also less likely to work over 50 h/week (39.5% vs 56.8%, p  = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Ob/gyn physician-mothers have high professional morale but are dissatisfied with time for extra-professional activities. Longer clinical hours correlate with dissatisfaction based on several measurements. Show more

Keywords: Obstetrics, parent work, physician satisfaction, work hours

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182734

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 201-207, 2018

Authors: Ehn, Mattias | Wahlqvist, Moa | Danermark, Berth | Dahlström, Örjan | Möller, Claes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research has demonstrated that persons with Usher syndrome type 1 (USH1) have significantly poorer physical and psychological health compared to a reference group. PURPOSE: To explore the relation between work, health, social trust, and financial situation in USH1 compared to a reference group. MATERIAL: Sixty-six persons (18–65 y) from the Swedish Usher database received a questionnaire and 47 were included, 23 working and 24 non-working. The reference group comprised 3,049 working and 198 non-working persons. METHODS: The Swedish Health on Equal Terms questionnaire was used and statistical analysis with multiple logistic regression was …conducted. RESULTS: The USH1 non-work group had a higher Odds ratio (95% CI) in poor psychological and physical health, social trust, and financial situation compared to the USH1 work group and reference groups. Age, gender, hearing, and vision impairment did not explain the differences. The relation between the USH1 work and non-work groups showed the same pattern as the reference groups, but the magnitude of problems was significantly higher. CONCLUSIONS: Both disability and unemployment increased the risk of poor health, social trust and financial situation in persons with USH1, but having an employment seemed to counteract the risks related to disability. Show more

Keywords: Employment, working life, health, psychological health, dual sensory loss, deafblindness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182731

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 209-220, 2018

Authors: Porter, Susann | Lexén, Annika | Johanson, Suzanne | Bejerholm, Ulrika

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Depression is among the major causes of disability with a negative impact on both daily life and work performance. Whilst depression is the primary cause of sick-leave and unemployment in today’s workplace there is a lack of knowledge of the needs of individuals with depression regarding their return-to-work (RTW) process. OBJECTIVE: To explore which factors are of critical importance for people suffering from depression and who also are unemployed in their RTW-process and to explore the impact of two vocational approaches on the service users’ experiences. The study included participants in two vocational rehabilitation approaches; Individual Enabling …and Support (IES) and Traditional Vocational Rehabilitation (TVR). METHOD: Qualitative methods were applied to explore critical factors in the RTW-process. Individuals with affective disorders including depression and bipolar disorder were included. RESULTS Three themes emerged as critical factors; Experiencing hope and power, professionals ’ positive attitudes, beliefs and behaviours, and employing a holistic perspective and integrating health and vocational service. CONCLUSION This study has demonstrated critical factors for the return-to-work process as experienced by persons with depression. To experience hope and power, to meet professionals that believe “you can work”, who use a person-centred and holistic service approach, are such factors necessary for gaining a real job. In particular, professionals in TVR need to embrace this understanding since their services were not experienced as including these elements. Show more

Keywords: Depression, bipolar disorder, supported employment, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182737

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 221-234, 2018

Authors: D’Silva, Chelsea | Côté, Pierre | Murphy, Bernadette | Barakat-Haddad, Caroline

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Laptop computer use may lead to the development of health problems. However, few methods exist to measure laptop use in undergraduate students. OBJECTIVES: To develop a web-based questionnaire to measure ergonomic exposures to laptop use and to test the feasibility of administration in university students. METHODS: We pilot tested the administration of the Student Laptop Use and Musculoskeletal Posture (SLUMP) questionnaire to 44 second year undergraduate students. We measured the participation rate, completion of questions, and sought feedback for improving the questionnaire. RESULTS: The participation rate was 75% (33/44). Students needed 10–12 …minutes to complete the questionnaire. Participants suggested adding half hour intervals for questions measuring breaks and improving the clarity by emphasizing the sections focusing on academic, recreational and employment laptop use. CONCLUSION: Our pilot study suggests that the SLUMP questionnaire is appropriate for “in-class” measurement of ergonomic exposures to laptop use in university students. Show more

Keywords: Questionnaire development, computer use, undergraduate student

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182730

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 235-261, 2018

Authors: Lorefice, Lorena | Fenu, Giuseppe | Frau, Jessica | Coghe, Giancarlo | Marrosu, Maria Giovanna | Cocco, Eleonora

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Frequently diagnosed in young adulthood, multiple sclerosis (MS) and several MS-related factors can influence patients’ unemployment status and negatively affect work productivity and daily functioning. OBJECTIVE: We examined MS patients’ employment status and evaluated clinical features influencing it. Furthermore, we investigated patients’ burdens due to visible and invisible MS symptoms through their worsening daily functioning. METHODS: The study included outpatients affected by MS according to the 2010 McDonald criteria. The co-occurrence of invisible symptoms (fatigue, depression and apathy) was stated using validated, self-administered tools: Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS); Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II); Apathy Evaluation …Scale (AES). Impairment in daily functioning due to MS was assessed using the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS). Descriptive statistics, hierarchical regression analyses, Pearson’s correlation, and the t-test were conducted. RESULTS: Of the 123 participants, 52 (42.3%) were unemployed. Results showed employment to be positively associated with higher education levels (p 0.01); female gender (p 0.03) and higher disability (p 0.02) showed negative associations with employment. No associations were found between employment and fatigue or clinically relevant depressive and apathetic symptoms. High correlations were found between WSAS score and Expanded Disability Status Scale score (r  = 565, p  < 0.001), BDI-II score (r  = 588, p  < 0.001), and FSS score (r  = 545, p  < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our study revealed physical disability’s significance in determining MS patients’ unemployment. Alternatively, invisible MS symptoms negatively affected principally patients’ social lives. Therefore, programs should be designed to improve MS patients’ work integration and daily activities. Show more

Keywords: Physical disability, disease burden, work and social adjustment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182682

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 263-270, 2018

Authors: Aliabadi, Mohsen | Biabani, Azam | Golmohammadi, Rostam | Farhadian, Maryam

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Actual noise reduction of the earmuffs is considered as one of the main challenges for the evaluation of the effectiveness of a hearing conservation program. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to determine the real world noise attenuation of current hearing protection devices in typical workplaces using a field microphone in real ear (FMIRE) method. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, five common earmuffs were investigated among 50 workers in two industrial factories with different noise characteristics. Noise reduction data was measured with the use of earmuffs based on the ISO 11904 standard, field microphone in real …ear method, using noise dosimeter (SVANTEK, model SV 102) equipped with a microphone SV 25 model. RESULTS: The actual insertion losses (IL) of the tested earmuffs in octave band were lower than the labeled insertion loss data (p  < 0.05). The frequency nature of noise to which workers are exposed has noticeable effects on the actual noise reduction of earmuffs (p  < 0.05). The results suggest that the proportion of time using earmuffs has a considerable impact on the effective noise reduction during the workday. CONCLUSIONS: Data about the ambient noise characteristics is a key criterion when evaluating the acoustic performance of hearing protectors in any workplaces. Comfort aspects should be considered as one of the most important criteria for long-term use and effective wearing of hearing protection devices. FMIRE could facilitate rapid and simple measurement of the actual performance of the current earmuffs employed by workers during different work activities. Show more

Keywords: Noise reduction rating, insertion loss, hearing protectors, ambient noise characteristics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-182726

Citation: Work, vol. 60, no. 2, pp. 271-279, 2018