Work - Volume 64, issue 1

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192965

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 1-1, 2019

Authors: Li, Wentao | Wolbring, Gregor

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Return-to-work (RTW)/back-to-work (BTW) interventions that are designed to rehabilitate individuals impaired from fulfilling employment roles are facing challenges. Ethics discourses, including ethics theories, principles and concepts, are meant to give guidance on what one ought to do or not to do and RTW professionals could use them to respond to their challenges. OBJECTIVE: A scoping review was performed to investigate to what extent 33 ethics concepts, theories, and principles are employed in RTW/BTW academic literature, and to what extent RTW/BTW is engaged with in ethics linked academic journals. METHODS: Three academic databases were searched, and …147 article results were extracted from our literature review to be thematically analyzed. RESULTS: Searches with n  = 11 ethics concepts and n  = 4 ethics theories generated results. The content of 20 RTW/BTW article results demonstrated conceptual engagement between RTW and ethics discourses. Only one article in ethics-related journals conceptually engaged with RTW/BTW. CONCLUSION: Ethics theories and principles were not used extensively in RTW/BTW academic literature and RTW/BTW is a topic under-engaged within ethics-related journals. Our findings indicate opportunities for further research, like conducting interviews, to better understand our findings and how to respond to them. Show more

Keywords: Back to work, ethics theories, ethics concepts, ethical reasoning, conceptual engagement

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192973

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 3-19, 2019

Authors: Johansson, Jan | Berglund, Leif | Johansson, Maria | Nygren, Magnus | Rask, Kjell | Samuelson, Björn | Stenberg, Magnus

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The paper is a research review focusing on occupational safety in the construction industry. OBJECTIVE: The purpose is to present research that highlights the areas of occupational safety and risks and to identify areas where research is lacking. METHODS: 146 articles from scientific journals, mainly covering the construction industry in Europe, Canada, USA, Australia and Japan have been studied. The findings are presented under 11 categories: accident statistics; individual factors; legislation and regulations; ethical considerations; risk management; leadership, management, organization; competence; safety design; cost-benefit calculations; programs and models; and technical solutions. RESULTS: The …research is dominated by initiatives from researchers and government authorities, while the construction industry only appears as the object for the research. There is a scarcity of research on integrated systems encompassing subcontractors, as well as a lack of research with sociological perspectives on accidents. Furthermore, only a few studies have applied a gender perspective on safety in construction, i.e. there is a need of further research in this particular area. CONCLUSIONS: A range of initiatives have been taken to increase safety in the construction industry and the initiatives are mainly reported to be successful. There are some cultural differences, but basically researchers present similar results regardless of country. Show more

Keywords: Accidents, risk management, safety design, technical solutions, safety interventions and prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192976

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 21-32, 2019

Authors: Asante, Benedicta O. | Trask, Catherine | Adebayo, Olugbenga | Bath, Brenna

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Waste management is a growing industry worldwide. Working conditions may entail risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders, and especially low back disorders (LBD). OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review on: (i) the prevalence of LBD; and (ii) risk factors for LBD among waste collection workers. METHOD: A search was conducted in three electronic databases: Ovid Medline, EMBASE, and Global Health ePublications. Data were extracted on study design, sampling strategy, geographical region, LBD prevalence, and risk factors. Data were reported narratively. RESULTS: Thirteen full-text articles met the study criteria. …Using a range of definitions for LBD, the included articles reported a 12-month prevalence of ‘LBD’ between 16 to 74%, although none of the included studies quantified relationships between risk factors and LBD. None of the studies met all 9 risk of bias criteria. No articles investigated the association of risk factors and LBD, but even in absence this evidence authors of included studies suggested physical risk factors for LBD among waste workers: awkward posture, repetitive motion, and work duration. CONCLUSION: In light of these risks and future growth in this industry, the lack of high quality studies and investigation of risk factors highlight the need for more research in this sector which will support future LBD prevention efforts. Show more

Keywords: Back pain, scavengers, waste pickers, recycling

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192977

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 33-42, 2019

Authors: Hume, Shelley | Hamilton, Anita

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is a trend in higher education towards the use of digital or electronic portfolios (ePortfolios) to collect evidence that demonstrates learning and skill development. There are very few papers that examine the key features and what to include in an occupational therapy ePortfolio. OBJECTIVE: This study presents an approach to developing a graduate entry ePortfolio to prepare occupational therapy students for transition to work. METHODS: An e-Delphi approach was used to gather the opinions of eight categories of experts. Three rounds of questionnaires were used to explore the purpose, terminology, content, structure, and development …phases of a graduate entry ePortfolio. RESULTS: Key stakeholders indicated that the purpose of a professional portfolio is to create a professional profile, record experiences, skills and behaviours, and promote recording of lifelong learning and achievements. Delphi expert panel members emphasised the importance of personal choice in selecting evidence recorded in each collection, which must be guided by ethical decision-making. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the study are important to students who wish to build an ePortfolio to organise and display evidence of competence prior to graduation in readiness to enter the workforce. The recommendations also will be of value to occupational therapy educators in curriculum development. Show more

Keywords: Transition, Delphi, digital

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192967

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 43-54, 2019

Authors: Jun, Deokhoon | O’Leary, Shaun | McPhail, Steven M. | Johnston, Venerina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related psychosocial factors such as job strain are thought to contribute to elevated psychological stress in office workers. One factor that may impact the relationship between job strain and psychological distress is the individual’s coping resources. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to examine the interaction effect of coping resources on the relationship between job strain and psychological distress in office workers. METHODS: 220 office workers in Australia and Korea completed the Job Content Questionnaire (to evaluate job strain and social support at work), the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, (DASS-21, a measure of …psychological distress), and the Coping with Job Stress Scale to assess control and escape coping. Hierarchical regression analyses were executed to examine the interaction and moderating effect of coping resources. RESULTS: Job strain had a direct positive relationship with all three domains of psychological distress. The relationship between job strain and depression was positively moderated by escape coping, but negatively moderated by social support. Use of higher levels of escape coping predicted higher levels of depression and anxiety symptoms when higher levels of job strain were perceived. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest there may be a direct relationship between job strain and psychological distress in office workers. This relationship, however, may be moderated by the office workers coping resources (coping strategies and social support). It is suggested that the evaluation of coping might be a key consideration in the elements of the assessment of psychological distress in office workers. Show more

Keywords: Interaction effect, coping strategy, social support, work stress

DOI: 10.3233/PWOR-192968

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 55-65, 2019

Authors: Pelders, Jodi | Nelson, Gill

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mine workers in South Africa face various health and safety risks, and socioeconomic challenges. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the associations between socio-demographic factors and health, safety and wellness in the South African mining industry. METHODS: Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from 64 interviews with mine management and labour representatives, 14 focus groups with mine workers, and 875 questionnaires completed by mine workers from three platinum, two gold, one coal, one diamond, and one manganese mine in South Africa. RESULTS: Health challenges included non-communicable diseases, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB), and respiratory diseases, …while safety challenges included worker behaviour, stress and fatigue. Socio-demographic factors associated with disease, sick leave, fatigue, accidents and job satisfaction included age, length of service, race, nationality, education, mining sector, work status, income, housing, domestic crowding, sleep, exercise, alcohol use, and perceived quality of life. CONCLUSION: Socio-demographic factors should be taken into consideration when developing workplace health and safety programmes. Show more

Keywords: Disease, sick leave, fatigue, work accidents, job satisfaction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192969

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 67-76, 2019

Authors: Wax, Joseph R. | Cartin, Angelina | Craig, Wendy Y. | Pinette, Michael G.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Healthcare workers experience a disproportionately high frequency of workplace assaults. Incidents involving firearms are of particular concern. OBJECTIVE: To provide detailed characterizations of recent hospital shootings to better inform prevention and mitigation strategies. METHODS: Quantitative content analysis of reports involving hospital shootings resulting in casualties derived from web searches for each year from 2012–2016. Data were abstracted independently by two investigators, with differences resolved by consensus. Data were compared between subgroups by chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, or Kruskal-Wallis test, as appropriate. RESULTS: Eighty-eight shootings occurred in 86 hospitals resulting in 121 firearms-related …casualties, including 54 victims and 67 perpetrators. Case fatality rates were 55.6% (n  = 30) and 70.1% (n  = 47), respectively. The most frequent sites involved were the emergency department, (n  = 27, 30.3%), patient room (n  = 19, 21.3%), and parking lot (n  = 13, 14.6%). Grudge (n  = 17, 19.3%), suicide (n  = 14, 15.9%), and mental instability (n  = 13, 14.8%) were the most common explanations for these shootings. Four inadvertent discharges occurred and were more likely to involve a female perpetrator (p  = 0.03). Shootings were most frequent during summer (p  = 0.03) and winter (p  = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Out study findings on location and seasonal patterns can guide the development or improvement of prevention and mitigations strategies for hospital shootings. Show more

Keywords: Firearm violence, active shooter, acute care, hospital, quantitative content analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192970

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 77-83, 2019

Authors: Intolo, Pattariya | Prasongsansuk, Nuttheera | Srilabutr, Pimmas | Sittichoksakulchai, Wannapus | Khutok, Kornkanok | Baxter, David G

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Children regularly use tablets in a variety of postures. Previous studies have shown that prolonged use of such an IT device increases the risk of musculoskeletal pain. OBJECTIVE: To investigate pain and muscle activity during tablet use by children in three different workstation positions–on the table with a case set, on a table, and on the lap. METHODS: Twenty five healthy and right-handed participants aged 10–12 years were recruited and assigned to play computer games for 15 minutes in each workstation. Pain(VAS) was measured at the neck, shoulder, upper back, and forearm regions immediately after …tablet use. Electromyography (EMG) was measured at the cervical erector spinae (CES), upper trapezius (UT), middle trapezius (MT), and wrist extensors (WE) muscles during the final two minutes. RESULTS: Results showed that using a tablet on the table with a case set caused the least pain in the neck region (p  < 0.05), compared with the use on the table and on the lap(which had pain scales of 0.37±0.86, 1.74±1.77, 1.72±1.90, respectively; mean±SD). EMG of cervical erector spinae during tablet use on the table with a case set was significantly lower (p  < 0.05) than those on the table and on the lap (muscle activity of 22.38±9.54,35.37±16.82, 35.29±13.30 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Tablet use on the table with a case set demonstrated a significantly lower severity of pain at the neck region than tablet use on the table and on the lap. To prevent musculoskeletal disorders, tablet use on the table with a case set is recommended as the optimal workstation for children. Show more

Keywords: EMG, information technology, kids, discomfort, mobile device

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192971

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 85-91, 2019

Authors: Eliasson, Kristina | Lind, Carl Mikael | Nyman, Teresia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Several observation-based risk-assessment tools have been developed in recent decades. Studies reporting their use often focus only on the user, the ergonomist. The influence of context and the attributes of the tools may also affect the use but are factors that are seldom considered. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to explore the process of risk-assessment assignments and to identify factors influencing the use of research-based observation-based risk-assessment tools among Swedish ergonomists, with a background as reg. physiotherapists, employed in Occupational Health Services (OHS). METHODS: A web-based questionnaire (n  = 70) was combined with …semi-structured interviews (n  = 12). RESULTS: There was limited use of several observation-based risk-assessment tools. Furthermore, the results showed that ergonomics risk-assessment assignments are most commonly initiated reactively and that interventions were seldom evaluated. Factors that influence use are related both to the ergonomist and to the attributes of the tools as well as to contextual factors assigned to authorities, and internal organisations both within occupational health service companies and client companies. CONCLUSION: There was a lack of systematic approaches in ergonomics risks assessment and low use and knowledge of risk-assessment tools. This indicates that there is a need to support OHS companies in implementing systematic tools in their practice. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, occupational health service, musculoskeletal disorders, observation tools, Ottawa model of research use

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192972

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 93-106, 2019

Authors: Rydell, Alexis | Andersson, Ing-Marie | Bernsand, Carl-Olof | Rosén, Gunnar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A considerable amount of money is invested annually in workplaces to promote creative, comfortable and safe work environments. The processes and effects of these investments are however not sufficiently studied. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this article is to examine work environment investment processes and identify organizational critical elements for optimizing investment in terms of occupational health and safety effects for employees. METHODS: Twelve case studies were conducted in different sectors. The data was collected through interviews, by studying available documents, and, in several cases, observations and measurement of hazards by means of the PIMEX-method. …RESULTS: The empirical results yielded seven different critical elements for work environment investment processes. The critical elements identified were: identifying the need, risk assessment, involvement of staff, consultation with OHS expertise, procurement and delivery, implementation and training of workers, and evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: The critical elements have wide similarities with steps outlined in Swedish Work Environment Management processes, and ideas described in the Plan-Do-Act-Check model. If organizations follow this process, they are provided with improved possibilities for maximizing invested money for a safer working environment. Show more

Keywords: Safe workplaces, systematic work environment management, improvement measures, change process

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192974

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 107-116, 2019

Authors: Nützi, Marina | Schwegler, Urban | Staubli, Stefan | Ziegler, Ruth | Trezzini, Bruno

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Matching an individual’s capabilities, interests and needs with corresponding job demands and characteristics is an established procedure in vocational rehabilitation (VR). Yet, a systematic exposition of specific factors affecting the determination and attainment of a person-job match in VR practice is currently missing. OBJECTIVE: To examine factors, assessments and interventions related to job matching (JM) in VR of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) by using a literature-based conceptual JM framework. METHODS: Applying a qualitative descriptive design, data were collected by overt non-participant observations across the VR process of two individuals with SCI, representing major …return-to-work scenarios (returning to the pre-injury job and preparing for vocational retraining). RESULTS: Person-related, job-related and environmental factors were identified that either played a direct or indirect role in determining and attaining a person-job match. The factors were evaluated by different work-related and medical assessments and were targeted by a number of JM-related interventions. CONCLUSIONS: While our conceptual framework may serve as a generic blueprint to facilitate JM approaches in VR practice, the specific factors identified in our study are particularly valuable for developing JM applications aimed at promoting sustainable return to work for persons with SCI. Show more

Keywords: Return to work, work rehabilitation, non-participant observation, vocational counseling, person-job fit, person-environment fit, work participation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192975

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 117-134, 2019

Authors: Bagheri, Zahra Shaghayegh | Patel, Nidhi | Li, Yue | Rizzi, Katherine | Lui, Kai Yan Grace | Holyoke, Paul | Fernie, Geoff | Dutta, Tilak

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Falls are among the leading causes of occupational injuries for workers exposed to outdoor winter conditions such as Personal Support Workers (PSWs). Slip resistant footwear is known to reduce the risk of falls, however, it is difficult to predict how well a particular boot will perform prior to purchasing them. Our recently developed Maximum Achievable Angle (MAA) test can be used to rate footwear objectively to address this gap. OBJECTIVE: To rate the slip resistance of a selection of winter footwear that meets the needs and preferences of PSWs. METHODS: We selected 40 representative types …of footwear based on survey results from 677 PSWs and applied our MAA test to rate slip resistance. RESULTS: Comfort and slip resistance were rated the most important features for selecting winter footwear. Of the 40 types of footwear tested, six were found to have a good slip resistance on ice. CONCLUSION: The vast majority of winter footwear that meet the needs and preferences of PSWs, perform poorly on ice. Therefore, PSWs should consult our website (ratemytreads.com) for selecting appropriate footwear that will keep them safe in the winter. Show more

Keywords: Slips, falls, outdoor workers, footwear, homecare workers, icy surfaces

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192947

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 135-151, 2019

Authors: Singh, Harbir | Singh, Lakhwinder Pal

Article Type: Case Report

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Insurance employees in India are overworked, and their jobs demand prolonged sitting hours in the office; this can lead to musculoskeletal disorders through consistent stress on the musculoskeletal system. The present study includes implications for the reduction of work-related musculoskeletal disorders to minimise sick leaves and medical expenses. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder-related issues among employees working in insurance offices and to analyse the association of pain symptoms with risk factors including demographic, occupational and psychosocial factors. METHODS: The study included 400 employees from different insurance offices. Data were …collected using a questionnaire about pain, a flexibility test (sit-and-reach test) and a video-based analysis of working postures using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method. RESULTS: The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms was the highest in the neck (57.2%), shoulders (38.5%), upper back (28.5%) and lower back (46.2%). CONCLUSIONS: A high persistence of musculoskeletal symptoms was observed in the neck, lower back, upper back and shoulders; the presence of these symptoms was strongly associated with predominant factors: assumed awkward posture, body mass index, job demand, RULA score and infrequent rest breaks. Additional research is required for testing the effect of interventions involving stretching exercises and/or installation of ergonomic workstations. Show more

Keywords: BMI, occupational factors, psychosocial work factors, RULA

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192978

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 153-160, 2019

Authors: Kekkonen, Päivi | Reiman, Arto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Service organizations and their employees encounter challenges today due to an increase in the average age of employees, a decrease in recruitment, and changes in work tasks, sites, and communities. These factors give rise to physical and psychosocial burdens that can lower the work ability and productivity of the employees. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study is to find practical solutions for challenges related to the work environment and practices at a public in-house enterprise providing meal and cleaning services. Also, the design of a model for the management of these load factors at municipal workplaces, where …stakeholders from different subdivisions work together, is intended. METHODS: The materials comprised of documents provided by the case organization, interviews, and work observations. Root cause analysis and participatory development sessions were carried out to find causes for the observed challenges and to discover practical solutions. RESULTS: A number of microergonomic solutions were found. Also, broader subjects for development, common to several target workplaces, were discovered. CONCLUSIONS: The concept of a shared workplace, proved useful in exploring ways to manage work ability and productivity. A generalizable macroergonomics model for the management of load factors at shared workplaces in the public sector was proposed. Show more

Keywords: Load factors, macroergonomics, participatory development, public sector, work system

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192966

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 161-173, 2019