Work - Volume 74, issue 1

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-236000

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 1-2, 2023

Authors: Rumrill, Phillip D. | Rumrill, Stuart P. | Wickert, Kimberly | Sheppard-Jones, Kathleen | Baumunk, Megan | Roessler, Richard T.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research has long documented the low cost and effectiveness of most workplace accommodations to enable qualified people with disabilities to seek, secure, and maintain employment. OBJECTIVE AND METHOD: RETAIN Kentucky’s return to work and stay at work intervention involves focused training for participants on requesting needed accommodations from their employers. RESULTS: In this article, we describe the win-win approach to reasonable accommodations, which serves as the basis for helping Kentuckians with disabilities identify and request on-the-job supports to aid in their efforts to remain in the workforce. CONCLUSIONS: Workers with disabilities are more …likely to stay in the workforce and continue making valuable contributions to the national and global economies if they have effective accommodations and other employment supports available to them. Show more

Keywords: Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodations, self-advocacy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-223651

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 3-10, 2023

Authors: Dockrell, Sara | Culleton-Quinn, Elizabeth

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in mandatory remote working for workers in many sectors, including education. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the physical characteristics of workspaces, computer use, and prevalence, associated factors, and reported impact of computer-related musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) among university staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of staff in a university in Ireland was conducted in March 2021. An anonymous online survey of computer use, work practices and 3-month prevalence and the reported impact of computer-related MSS (modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire) was conducted. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and relationships …were tested using chi-squared analysis. RESULTS: The analysis included 1045 responses. The majority (63%) worked solely from home, used a laptop more frequently than a desktop computer, and worked a greater number of hours. Almost half (48%) did not have a dedicated home workspace. More respondents reported their university workspace (72%) was more comfortable than their home workspace (51.2%) (p  < 0.0001). Prevalence of computer-related MSS was 83% : neck (62%), shoulder (57%), lower back (47%). Laptop-related MSS was reported more frequently (82%) than desktop-related MSS (65%) (p  < 0.05). Computer-related MSS was associated with workspace, equipment at home, laptop use, female gender, and righthandedness (p  < 0.05). A reduction in non-work-related activities (35%), work activities (18%) and seeking medical attention (24%) was reported. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of computer-related MSS was high and associated with remote working. Further studies that aim to mitigate the risks of computer-related MSS in those working remotely or in hybrid models are required. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, education sector, COVID-19, ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220235

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 11-20, 2023

Authors: Alam, Beenish Fatima | Bashir, Raima | Hussain, Talib | Abbas, Tanveer | Malik, Sidra Azeem | Jan, Syed Hassan | Khurshid, Maryam

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a major impact on the educational institutes globally and resulted in the transition from traditional educational systems to online electronic learning methods. OBJECTIVE: This study endeavored to address and compare the dental student’s understanding regarding the Oral Biology course by assessing their knowledge and skills between the students enrolled during 2020 (online teaching) and 2021 (face-to-face teaching). This study also aimed to assess the perception of dental students regarding the virtual mode of teaching. METHODS: This quasi-experimental study evaluated students from two years, in which a retrospective group of …dental students enrolled during the academic year 2020 were compared with a prospective experimental group enrolled during the academic year 2021. Knowledge and skills for both years were compared. This comprised of theoretical and practical component. Students also completed a questionnaire that assessed student’s perception regarding online teaching. RESULTS: A total of 98 students of Bahria University Dental College participated. A comparison between grade scores of online and traditional learning groups reported statistically significant differences (p  = 0.05*) with regards to short answer question types, viva or verbal questions (p  = 0.016*). Strong correlations were observed via the multivariable analysis. All correlations were statistically significant at p  < 0.01 level. Learning satisfaction was not satisfactorily observed by the online learning group. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that despite the disruption that the educational sector had to face due to the COVID-19 pandemic, based on the differences in the subjective domain scores, students appeared to like on-campus teaching more than the online teaching, as most students found online learning to be stressful and were quite unsatisfied. However, the difference in mode of teaching did not affect the knowledge and skills of the dental students. Show more

Keywords: Online learning, COVID-19, traditional learning, dental students

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220082

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 21-29, 2023

Authors: Wang, Hong | Farokhnia, Fahimeh | Sanchuli, Narges

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has struck nations worldwide, pushing worldwide health and socio-economic systems to extreme limits. Upon exposure to an exceeding number of patients and supply shortages, the resilience of healthcare resources has been broadly challenged. OBJECTIVE: We will firstly discuss the mental health turmoil during the COVID-19 pandemic as the primary focus of this study and delve into the mental health repercussions among the workforce. Also, we debate the risk factors, particularly highlighting the impact of social behaviors and media exposure. We examine the pandemic’s impact on occupational health services. Secondly, we thoroughly discuss the effect …of socio-economic and race disparities in the COVID-19 contraction and the related psychologic sequelae. Economic outcomes are also highlighted, particularly alterations in poverty rates and occupational sectors. METHODS: Peer-reviewed reports were extracted through Embase, PubMed, and Google Scholar until June 2022. RESULTS: A constellation of untoward spillover effects of the pandemic, including dramatic changes in public and workplace environments, enduring curfew, and low wages, have put socio-economic aspects of daily life under exuberant strain. Indeed, occupational and public health stakeholders presume a coinciding social crisis to occur, provided the pandemic’s implications on socioeconomics and psychological wellbeing are not addressed well with evidence-based approaches and peer services. CONCLUSION: Evaluating the socio-economic and mental health impact is imperative to cope with the pandemic. Also, we should assess the predisposing and protecting factors in a broad array of life aspects associated with COVID-19. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, coronavirus, socioeconomics, labor force, psychological wellbeing, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220136

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 31-45, 2023

Authors: Al-Nassan, Saad | Alshallan, Amjad | Hawamdeh, Mohannad

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physiotherapy plays an essential role in combating the complications of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Profiling the experiences and challenges of physiotherapy practice in a country will help in customizing the competencies needed for physiotherapy education and regulations of practice. OBJECTIVE: To explore the experiences, knowledge, training, and barriers of practice for Jordanian physiotherapists who worked with COVID-19 cases at different work settings. METHODS: An online survey was distributed to physiotherapists working at different Jordanian rehabilitation settings. Physiotherapists who had experience in dealing with COVID-19 cases were eligible to participate in the study. RESULTS: …The survey showed that only 38% of participants had received specialized training in dealing with COVID-19. Respiratory exercises were mostly used in the intensive care units or isolation wards (60%), and with patients having long-term complications (74%). Inadequate patients’ referral to physiotherapy was reported by 88.6% of eligible participants. The majority of participants (68%) reported lack of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) for physiotherapists. Challenges at the level of treatment skills, techniques, and communication were the most frequently reported by participants (44%), followed by challenges at the level of work policies (32%), then by challenges at the level of knowledge about the disease (28%). CONCLUSION: The study showed gaps in knowledge, training, and work-related policies that all created challenges for physiotherapists dealing with COVID-19 cases in Jordan. We hope our data can help in providing a basis for developing educational and training programs, in addition to revising work-related policies, to promote physiotherapy management of COVID-19 in Jordan. Show more

Keywords: Rehabilitation, knowledge, training, obstacles

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211460

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 47-57, 2023

Authors: Ipsen, Christine | Kirchner, Kathrin | Bolisani, Ettore | Scarso, Enrico

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Digital applications have been vital to ensuring business continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Indeed, digital transformation is considered key to shaping Europe’s future, including the opportunity for hybrid work. Consequently, a central issue is the experience and perception of workers and the effect on their mental well-being. OBJECTIVE: Building on the assumption that the more ‘digitalized’ and ‘experienced with working from home (WFH),’ the more positive peoples’ perceptions are, this paper explores how workers in Italy and Denmark perceived WFH during the first COVID-19 lockdown from a psychosocial perspective and what lessons could be drawn for policy …and industry. METHODS: Ranking top and bottom respectively on the European Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) and different pre-pandemic experiences of WFH, data about WFH perceptions and mental well-being were collected among Danes and Italians via a survey from March to May 2020. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA. RESULTS: The combination of high rank and pre-experience of WFH did not result in a positive perception of WFH. Mental well-being of Danes were mostly affected and they experienced WFH to be more challenging than the Italians, where the key disadvantages were related to “Home office constraints” and the isolation that followed. CONCLUSION: When digitalizing Europe and workplaces are likely to offer people the opportunity to have hybrid work, the results highlight how national conditions affect the prospects of the new ways of working including people’s mental well-being and where actions are most needed for policy and industry. Show more

Keywords: Well-being, teleworking, social isolation, policy, gender

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220137

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 59-74, 2023

Authors: Henly, Megan | McDonough, Christine M. | Porcino, Julia | Peterik, Kara | Rasch, Elizabeth K. | Marfeo, Elizabeth E. | Houtenville, Andrew J. | Brucker, Debra L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: An understanding of the link between specific occupational demands and individual worker functioning is limited, although such information could permit an assessment of the fit between the two in a manner that would inform national and state disability programs such as vocational rehabilitation and Social Security disability programs. OBJECTIVE: Our goal was to examine the utility of assessing physical and mental functioning relative to self-reported job duties to identify the domains of worker functioning most likely to create barriers to fulfilling an occupation’s specific requirements. METHODS: Through primary survey data collection, 1770 participants completed the …Work-Disability Functional Assessment Battery (WD-FAB) instrument after reporting details on their occupations (or most recent occupation if not working). Expert coders evaluated the level of function expected to successfully carry out each self-reported job duty with respect to six scales of physical and mental function. Quantitative analysis is used to examine the relationship between functioning and job duties. RESULTS: Those not working due to disability were more likely to fall short of the threshold of the physical and mental functioning requirements of their last job’s three main job duties compared to those currently employed. Mental function scales were most likely to be the area experiencing a shortfall. CONCLUSIONS: Functional difficulties impede the ability to continue working in particular jobs that require that ability. This points to a need for specific accommodations to be implemented to bridge the gap between job requirements and functional capacity so that workers may remain engaged in their current work. Show more

Keywords: Work disability, physical health, mental health, employment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211169

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 75-87, 2023

Authors: Silva, Carla Rodrigues de Lima | Nunes, Aryelly Dayane da Silva | de Souza, Lourdes Bernadete Rocha | Barbosa, Isabelle Ribeiro

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Wind instrumentalist use the vocal tract intensively in their professional activities, which can lead to the development work-related voice disorders. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the perception of vocal tract discomfort (VTD) by wind instrumentalists from Natal, Brazil. METHOD: Cross-sectional study with 117 professional musicians and music students from six official bands/orchestras in the city of Natal. Both the Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale and a sample characterization questionnaire were applied. The Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test were applied in the statistical analysis of the variables. RESULTS: The most frequent and intense …symptoms of VTD were sensitive throat and sore throat. There was a significant difference between the values of frequency and intensity of all symptoms both before and after playing the instrument. Dryness was the most intense symptom felt after playing the instrument. Musicians who report muscle pain and gastroesophageal reflux showed more VTD symptoms. CONCLUSION: Symptoms of VTD are experienced by wind instrumentalists and can be work-related since there was a difference in their perception after playing their instruments. There was also a relationship with gastroesophageal reflux and muscle pain, indicating that, in addition to collective issues, the individual musicians’ health should be taken into account. Show more

Keywords: Music, occupational health, voice, vocal tract discomfort

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205244

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 89-95, 2023

Authors: Franzsen, Denise | de Witt, Patricia | Saohatse, Lebohang | van Niekerk, Matty

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Return to work (RTW) may be a lengthy and complex process for individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) especially when not well managed. This increases the risk of isolation and loss of routine which negatively influences their mental health. However, for clients with MDD, a comprehensive overview of all the factors that influence RTW based on a model of occupation is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To develop a conceptual framework to guide an occupation-based process of RTW for clients with MDD, treated in the private sector in South Africa. METHODS: This paper describes the development of a …conceptual framework using literature and thematic synthesis of a qualitative descriptive study based on interviews with eight participants diagnosed with MDD which were linked to constructs of Kielhofner’s Model of Human Occupation (MOHO). RESULTS: Qualitative data from key informant interviews were deductively analysed according to the subsystems of MOHO for waiting to RTW and experience of RTW. The conceptual framework developed included the constructs of Person and Occupational Setting from MOHO as well as the components of Occupational Identity and Competence central to intervention to achieve successful RTW. CONCLUSION: A successful RTW process for clients with MDD is dependent on the person and the occupational setting. The role of the occupational therapist in the RTW can be facilitated by the occupation-based conceptual framework developed on MOHO. Show more

Keywords: Model of Human Occupation, person, occupational setting, occupational therapy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210520

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 97-109, 2023

Authors: Ali Khan, Hafiz Ghufran | Khan, Muhammad Anwar | Ali, Muhammad Iftikhar | Khattak, Shoukat Iqbal | Shujaat, Sobia | Alam, Beenish Fatima

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Authentic leadership (AL) is an interesting topic in the organizational behavior literature that has attracted the attention of researchers since the last decade. OBJECTIVES: This research examines the employee-centered aspect among AL, trust, happiness at work and individual performance through a sequential mediating approach. METHOD: Data was collected from 435 healthcare professionals working in various hospitals in Pakistan. AL-independent variables were measured and the trust mediating variables were assessed through a questionnaire. The level of happiness at work and IP-dependent variables were measured through a survey. RESULTS: The results revealed a significant and …positive effect of AL on the individual performance that is connected both directly and indirectly through mediating effects of trust and happiness at work. Furthermore, the results showed that AL created a trustworthy atmosphere among the workers that enhanced employee’s happiness at work and, subsequently, improved their job performance and motivation. CONCLUSION: This research delivers new and important results as, one the one hand, it depends on the sequential mediating effects of constructs whereas, on the other hand, it integrates four important variables in one model. Theoretical and practical implications along with future recommendations were presented for organizational management. Show more

Keywords: Authentic leadership, trust, happiness at work, individual performance, leadership style

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211270

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 111-118, 2023

Authors: Deng, Huaqiang | Wang, Wei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workplace envy is a common, yet easily overlooked, phenomenon in the workplace, and it has an important impact on an organization. However, the majority of studies have focused on this topic from the perspective of the envier, and research from the perspective of the envied target is insufficient. OBJECTIVE: Building on social information processing theory, this study investigated the effects of being envied on coworker exchange and examined the influence of individual factors on this relationship. METHOD: A two-wave field survey was adopted for data collection, and 288 employees from six companies in the south …of China were included. A longitudinal cross-lagged panel analysis and the Latent Moderated Structural Equations (LMS) approach were performed using Mplus 8.3. RESULTS: The findings show that being envied has a negative effect on coworker exchange and that this negative relationship is stronger when narcissism is higher or the need for affiliation is lower. CONCLUSION: This study contributes to the literature on workplace envy by providing new insights and theoretical perspectives. Future research should focus on both people who envy and people who are envied, supervisor–subordinate envy, and the relationship between narcissism and being envied. Show more

Keywords: Workplace envy, social exchange, social information processing theory

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211165

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 119-127, 2023

Authors: Nowrouzi-Kia, Behdin | Gohar, Basem | Sithamparanathan, Gobika | Sun, Ruo Yue | Casole, Jennifer

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Indigenous workforce in Canada is challenged by a history of Euro-Canadian colonialism that has presented deleterious health outcomes, including those in the workplace. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the mental health of Indigenous workers in the workplace. METHODS: We used the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) between 2015 to 2016. Data were analyzed using the Public Use Microdata Files to profile the workplace mental health characteristics of First Nation Canadians (n  = 6,297) and Canadians (n  = 84,155). We utilized secondary data analysis design. The analyses included descriptive statistics (e.g., means and …standard deviations) of self-reported mood disorders (depression, bipolar, mania, dysthymia), anxiety (phobia, OCD, panic) and occupational factors (e.g., demographic, days off work due to an acute mental health condition, job type, and job stress) in indigenous peoples living off-reserve and other Aboriginal settlements in the provinces. RESULTS: We examined the indigenous cohort between the ages of 18–64 who were employed. The sample was 53.1% male, married (34.8%), and obtained a post-secondary diploma or university degree (57.9%). The study reported statistically significant gender and age differences across mood and anxiety disorders (p  < 0.05), job stress (p  < 0.05) and workload (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to describe the work profile of indigenous populations in Canada across various occupational mental health (e.g., mood disorders, anxiety) and demographic (e.g., age, education attainment) outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Indigenous workforce, Canada, work, mental health, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210927

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 129-136, 2023

Authors: Dodson, Matthew B. | Kyi, Min | Percy, Tania L. M. | Wadley, Megan | Deeker, Kelly | Matheson, Leonard N.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The 2001 Feasibility Evaluation Checklist (FEC) is an assessment of work readiness for individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI). It establishes the integrity of basic safety, productivity, and interpersonal factors in neurorehabilitation and vocational settings. This study represents an effort to further develop the FEC to increase its clinical utility. OBJECTIVE: To redesign the FEC by conducting Item Response Theory (IRT) analyses on the study’s results and combining those mathematical calibrations with clinical expert judgement. The result will be a new measure for use in clinical ABI neurorehabilitation and vocational settings: the Employment Feasibility Checklist (EFC). …METHODS: Seven participants with ABI were administered a situational assessment on multiple occasions by occupational therapists in a community rehabilitation clinic. The FEC was used to assess the participant’s performance across three areas of basic employment feasibility: safety, productivity, and interpersonal factors. Results were analyzed with IRT-Rasch analysis and then subjected to clinical expert judgment, resulting in adjustment recommendations for the FEC. RESULTS: In this scale development study, IRT analysis of results from 89 observation trials was combined with expert clinical judgment resulting in a redesigned tool with increased clinical utility for persons with ABI. The EFC is a 12-item observational rating scale for employment feasibility constructs of Productivity and Interpersonal Relations, with an additional six-item Workplace Safety subsection. CONCLUSION: The EFC is a mathematically calibrated tool designed to gauge feasibility for competitive employment in clients with ABI. The tool may be useful in clinical neurorehabilitation settings and vocational rehabilitation settings. Show more

Keywords: Neurorehabilitation, occupational therapy, Rasch analysis, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211055

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 137-151, 2023

Authors: Khan, Lubna | Shetty, Mamta | Kherada, Shifa | Kava, Reema | Kazi, Mubina | Walankar, Prachita | Mullerpatan, Rajani

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dough kneading is a commonly performed activity in the kitchen, which influences hand grip strength. OBJECTIVES: To study the influence of dough kneading exposure on hand grip strength and to evaluate the effect of dough kneading intervention on hand grip strength with the purpose of recommending dough kneading as a therapeutic exercise for improving hand grip strength. METHODS: One hundred and fifty healthy females with varying levels of exposure to dough kneading, stratified as occupational dough kneaders, habitual dough kneaders and non-kneaders, were studied. Hand grip strength of all participants was measured with a standard …protocol using the Jamar dynamometer. Hand grip strength of occupational, habitual and non-kneaders was compared. Non-kneaders followed a 6-week intervention of dough kneading and grip strength was recorded post-intervention. RESULT: Comparison of hand grip strength between the three groups revealed significant difference (p value < 0.001). Linear contrast analysis, revealed the least hand grip strength in non-kneaders compared to habitual and occupational dough kneaders, with occupational dough kneaders presenting maximum hand grip strength (p value < 0.001). Significant improvement was demonstrated in hand grip strength post-intervention in non-kneaders (p value < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that exposure to dough kneading has a positive influence on hand grip strength. Hand grip strength of non-kneaders was lowest compared to habitual and occupational kneaders. Kneading intervention improved hand grip strength and hence can be used therapeutically as a safe, low cost exercise in hand rehabilitation. Show more

Keywords: Handgrip strength, hand rehabilitation, kitchen workers, kneading

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210963

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 153-158, 2023

Authors: Uludag, Mesut | Vergili, Ozge | Kilic, Rabia Tugba | Oktas, Birhan | Yosmaoglu, Hayri Baran

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The ankle sprain is the most common ankle injury. Although the factors that increase the risk of ankle injury are included in the literature, the definitive evidence is controversial. OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to examine whether Q-angle, lateral distal tibial angle (LDTA), and hip muscle torque are associated with ankle sprain. METHODS: Thirty-six individuals who underwent an axial X-ray examination of the lower extremity following ankle sprain were included. The Q-angle and LDTA were measured on the axial knee X-rays on both sides. The isometric muscle strength was measured with a digital …handheld dynamometer for the quadriceps femoris muscle, the gluteus medius muscle and the gluteus maximus muscle. Muscle torques were calculated by multiplying isometric muscle strength values with the distance to the joint center. RESULTS: Discrimination analysis shows that the gluteus maximus (0.90), gluteus medius (0.49), quadriceps femoris muscle torques (0.34), and lateral distal tibial angle (0.43) were the factors that most contributed to ankle sprain. No significant relationship was found between the Q-angle and ankle sprain (p  = 0.603). A strong relationship was found between LDTA, quadriceps femoris, gluteus medius and gluteus maximus muscle torques and ankle sprain (p  = 0.014, p  < 0.001, p  = 0.011, p  = 0.002, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, the torques of the proximal muscle may be more related than the Q-angle to lateral ankle sprain injury. Individuals with high LDTA should also be carefully examined for the risk of ankle sprain. Show more

Keywords: Ankle injury, muscle strength, torque, knee, lower extremity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210268

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 159-166, 2023

Authors: Dewangan, Krishna Narayan | Patel, Thaneswer | Lalremruata,

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Tractors emit high intensity noise and prolonged exposure to high intensity noise causes hearing loss to the drivers. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to measure noise intensity at the tractor drivers’ ear level and hearing loss among tractor drivers. METHODS: Noise intensity was measured on 6 models of tractors which were operated with 5 different tillage implements. In order to assess hearing loss, audiometric test was performed at 7 frequencies, i.e. 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hz, among 30 tractor drivers and 30 control group subjects. All the selected tractor drivers …and control group subjects were also interviewed to obtain personal information and noise exposure details. RESULTS: The tractor drivers were exposed to noise intensity in the range of 91.7–97.5 dB(A). Audiogram analysis shows that the hearing threshold levels were significantly (p  < 0.05) higher among the tractor drivers as compared with the control group subjects. The effect was significantly (p  < 0.05) more on the left ear as compared with the right ear among the tractor drivers. Increase in age has significant (p  < 0.05) effect on the hearing threshold levels on the left ear. Prevalence of high frequency hearing loss was 50% among tractor drivers as compared with 10% among control group subjects. Hearing loss was significantly (p  < 0.05) more in the low frequency as compared with the high frequency among the tractor drivers. CONCLUSION: Indian tractor operators are exposed to high noise levels which may result in hearing loss. It is recommended that hearing conservation programs should be initiated to prevent noise hazards and hearing loss among the tractor drivers. Show more

Keywords: Sound pressure level, noise-induced hearing loss, hearing impairment, hearing threshold level, tillage implements

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210258

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 167-181, 2023

Authors: Mok, Irene | Mackenzie, Lynette | Thomson, Kate

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work injury can put older workers at higher risk of disability and early retirement. Rapid population ageing has raised questions about the ability of older workers to continue working, especially for those who have experienced work injury. Career development practices have been highlighted as a form of rehabilitation support to enable longer working lives of injured older workers. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to explore whether career development practices contribute to higher expected retirement age for injured older workers (aged 45 and above). METHOD: A total of 274 older Australian workers employed at …large organisations completed a survey about their health, retirement intentions, work injury, and engagement with career development practices. Hierarchical multiple regression and two-way analysis of variances were used to analyse the data. RESULTS: Work injury contributed to significantly lower expected retirement age for older workers. Work training and development predicted a significant amount of variance in expected retirement age of injured older workers, and enabled them to work to later retirement ages. There was no statistically significant difference in injured older workers’ expected retirement age for those who participated in career discussion with their managers and those who did not participate. CONCLUSION: Lack of career development support can affect injured older workers’ ability to participate in employment. The findings highlight the importance for rehabilitation and human resource professionals to have a proactive and educative role in providing career development support to injured older workers. Show more

Keywords: Work injury, career development, older workers, human resource management, retirement

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211249

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 183-191, 2023

Authors: Gerich, Joachim | Lehner, Roland

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research on the spillover effects of work stress on substance use have mainly focused on the concept of escapist substance. OBJECTIVE: Building on the concept of self-endangering work behavior, we expand this stress-theoretic view with a presenteeism path of work-induced substance use. Contrary to emotion-based disengaging coping strategies associated with escapist use, we argue that high job demands may also promote problem-focused engagement coping, where substances are used for activation. METHODS: A structural equation model was used to analyze both assumed pathways of stress-induced substance use with survey data from a random sample of n … = 411 employees. RESULTS: We confirmed that high job demands are directly related to escapist substance use, but indirectly related to activating substance use, mediated by presenteeism behavior. Both types of substance use are reduced in organizations with high psychosocial safety climate, but increase with higher competitive climate. Social support is related to reduced activating substance use. Males show a stronger tendency for the escapist path, whereas the presenteeism path is more prevalent in women. CONCLUSION: Work stress may not only induce substance use as a disengaging emotional coping strategy, but also as an active problem-focused coping strategy, where employees engage in substance use to continue their efforts necessary for work-related goal attainment. A psychosocial safety climate may provide opportunities for intervening on the “cause of causes” of substance use. Moreover, due to the higher prevalence for activating substance use in female workers, previous research may have underestimated women’s risks for work-induced substance use. Show more

Keywords: Presenteeism, psychosocial safety climate, social support, competitive climate, job demands

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211281

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 193-206, 2023

Authors: Jacob, Udeme Samuel | Pillay, Jace | Adeoye, Olukemi Esther | Oni, Temiloluwa Kehinde

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: People with intellectual disability are likely to face long-standing employment barriers in finding and keeping jobs, for a variety of reasons. This study, therefore, investigated barriers to employment of people with intellectual disability. The participants in this study were made up of sixty-five stakeholders who were recruited from six different categories. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to determine barriers to employment of people with intellectual disability. METHODS: A qualitative and quantitative research design was used in the study. The qualitative method was used to systematically identify barriers to employment for people with intellectual …disability while the quantitative method was used to rank the barriers. RESULTS: Findings indicate that barriers to employment for people with developmental disabilities are discrimination, stigma, employers’ attitude, and management style, feeling unappreciated, and working environment such as culture to accommodation, understanding and strengths. Moreover, results shows that discrimination was ranked the highest while feeling unappreciated was ranked the least of the barriers to employment of people with intellectual disability. CONCLUSION: The paper provides information about barriers to employment of people with intellectual disability in Nigeria that is required to initiate change in policy development. Show more

Keywords: Barriers, employment, intellectual disability, work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211097

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 207-218, 2023

Authors: Pinheiro, Tatiane Draguer Dal Ponte | Silva, Brenda | Zanella, Janice de Fátima Pavan | Salazar, Rodrigo Fernando dos Santos | Bonfanti-Azzolin, Gabriela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: At energy distribution companies, office and operational employees work in different occupational environments. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) can develop due to occupational factors and can often lead to morbidity and disability. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the risk of CVD in workers with different occupations in an energy distribution company, using cardiometabolic indices. METHODS: Workers (men), aged between 20 and 70 years, were divided into two groups: operational (n  = 78) and office (n  = 106) workers. Their metabolic profiles were analyzed using anthropometric and laboratory data to obtain the atherogenic plasma index (AIP) and insulin resistance index (TyG), and …to identify the hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype as cardiometabolic indicators. RESULTS: There was no difference in CVD risk between the two groups. However, 82% of the test subjects presented a high risk for the development of atherosclerosis based on the AIP, and 11.4% presented the HTGW phenotype, along with the presence of dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and being overweight as risk factors for CVD. CONCLUSIONS: Although the identified risk factors are not related to the type of occupation at work, companies in the electricity sector can invest in the implementation of measures for health promotion to protect and prevent diseases and improve labor productivity and quality. Show more

Keywords: Cardiometabolic indices, overweightedness, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205238

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 219-226, 2023

Authors: Vooijs, Marloes | Hazelzet, Astrid M. | van Kesteren, Nicole M.C. | Verhoef, Helen | Otten, Wilma

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Being able to participate in work is an important determinant of health. Therefore, reintegration professionals provide support to clients to return to work (RTW). Since RTW has a significant impact on a client’s life, it is preferred that clients are involved in the decision-making process of RTW. A method to do so, is shared decision-making (SDM), involving the following steps: collaborating as a team, explaining to clients that they can be part of the decision-making process, setting a shared goal, presenting and discussing choice options, and making a shared decision. OBJECTIVE: We explored how clients experience and …prefer these SDM steps in their current and ideal interaction with professionals. METHODS: We performed semi-structured interviews with fourteen clients receiving support in their RTW process from four different municipalities. RESULTS: Clients emphasised the importance of collaborating as team. None of the clients reported having been told that they could be part of the decision-making process, or discussed a shared goal with a professional, which they would prefer. Some clients were presented choice options. When choice options were discussed, frequently only the negative aspects of choice options were explained by the professional. A great number of clients experienced that shared decisions were made, but based this on the shared effort made by the client and professional to RTW. CONCLUSIONS: Clients generally wish to cooperate and participate in the decision-making process, but their ability to do so is limited due to not being fully involved in the SDM steps. Show more

Keywords: Self-management, client participation, autonomy, evidence-based, employment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211023

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 227-235, 2023

Authors: Kashif, Muhammad | Hassan, Shahzaib | Aniq Younas, Muhammad | Shafique, Ammar | Bhatti, Zahid Mehmood | Dustgir, Atif

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders cause a significant occupational problem for healthcare workers (HCWs). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to measure the prevalence, associated occupational risk factors and coping strategies for work-related musculoskeletal disorders among HCWs working in five hospitals in Faisalabad, Pakistan. METHODS: A previously used validated questionnaire, which consisted of four sections, including demographic information, occupational health questions, and associated occupational risk factors and coping strategies, was used as a survey tool to collect data on health workers working in five hospitals located in the Faisalabad District. RESULTS: The finding of this study revealed …that 7-day and 12-month prevalence rates of WMSDs were 1226 (83.45%) and 1107 (75.35%) respectively among HCWs and most common WMSDs was low back pain 576 (39.2%) followed by the neck 217 (15%) and ankles 186 (13%) according to body sites. The probability of developing WRMSDs was higher among physiotherapists (OR = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.39–9.51), participants with rank 18 (OR = 4.17, 95% CI: 2.18–7.96), and HCWs who work in primary care (OR = 8.94, 95% CI: 3.47–23.04). The most important risk factor reported was treating an excessive number of patients in one day (66.8%). The main coping strategies reported in this study were to get someone else to help in handling a heavy patient (90%). CONCLUSIONS: This study found that the most prevalent WMSD among HCWs was lower back pain. Sedentary lifestyle was shown to be a positive risk factor for acquiring WMSDs. Additionally, the primary risk factor discovered was treating an excessive number of patients, probably owing to a shortage of healthcare staff. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, prevalence, healthcare workers, risk factors, coping strategies

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210644

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 237-245, 2023

Authors: Jin, Haizhe | Yao, Junhan | Xiao, Zhibin | Qu, Qingxing | Fu, Quanwei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Medication administration errors by nurses form a high proportion of medical errors in medical institutions. Studies have shown that such errors are closely linked to nursing workload. OBJECTIVE: To quantitatively explore the effects of different types of nursing workloads on different medication administration errors. METHOD: Three medical institutions were selected as the objects of error data collection based on the following criteria: the medical institution experience in error data collection, the complete range of medical departments, and the institution size. Error cases were self-reported from all nurses in all medical departments. The relationship between the …error types and nursing workload types were quantitatively examined using partial least squares and structural equation modeling. RESULTS: The study recorded 290 medication administration errors, and extracted four error types and nine nursing workload types. The workload type for each error type was also identified and the path coefficient was found to be between 0.087 to 0.416. CONCLUSION: This study confirmed the effect of workload on medication administration errors and determined a theoretical mechanism for this effect. Research results will provide the evidence for nursing managers to reduce workload and ensure quality in the nursing administration process. Show more

Keywords: Medication administration errors, nursing workload, error types, quantitative study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211392

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 247-254, 2023

Authors: Cheragh, Zahra Ataei | Gandomi, Farzaneh | Sakinehpoor, Aynollah

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Holding incorrect postures over a long period could lead to chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP) in office employees. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of different typing positions on the activity of the neck extensor and upper trapezius (UT) muscles of office employees diagnosed with CNNP. METHODS: This assessor-blinded cross-sectional study was performed on 22 female subjects with the mean age of 39.95±5.30 years. The neck extensors and UT muscle activities of the participants were assessed in the upright, forward, and slouching postures by electromyography (EMG). In addition, neck proprioception and the …performance of the cervical stabilizer muscles were evaluated using an inclinometer and biofeedback pressure unit, respectively. RESULTS: A significant difference was observed between the cervical erector spine (CES) and UT muscle activities in the upright, forward, and slouching typing positions (P  < 0.05). In addition, a difference was observed between the upright and slouching postures in these muscles. A positive correlation was denoted between CES muscle activity in the slouching and forward postures and the activation index of neck muscles (P  < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant, negative correlation was observed between the UT muscle activity in the slouching posture and neck proprioception (P  < 0.05). A positive correlation was also noted between the pain index and repositioning error rates (P  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: CES muscle activity increased in a forward head posture, which could damage neck proprioception through causing early fatigue and stimulating a cumulative damage cycle. Show more

Keywords: Chronic nonspecific neck pain, posture, neck muscle, cervical erector spine

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210909

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 255-263, 2023

Authors: Audet, Jessika | Lecours, Alexandra | Nastasia, Iuliana

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represent 95 % of businesses and are economically essential. When occupational injuries occur, scientific literature suggests that the return-to-work (RTW) success rate is proportional to the size of enterprises and the way RTW is managed may put workers in SMEs at risk. As most studies on RTW organizational practices have been conducted with large enterprises, little is known about how RTW is managed in SMEs. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore SME’s organizational practices in the RTW process of workers having suffered an occupational injury. METHODS: Semi-structured …phone interviews were conducted with 15 participants from 3 different stakeholder categories (i.e., SME representatives, workers, and healthcare professionals) in order to explore their experiences regarding RTW in SMEs. Data were analyzed using a phenomenological analysis strategy. RESULTS: SMEs’ organisational practices evoked by participants gather in three themes: 1) Reducing the risks of occupational injuries (i.e., ensuring injury prevention), 2) Managing occupational injuries (i.e., dealing with the initial occupational injury, handling administrative aspects of work disability, and being actively involved in the RTW process), and 3) Preventing consequences of occupational injuries (i.e., adapting operations following injuries). CONCLUSION: Organizational practices for RTW are used diversely in SMEs. Proposed lines of action adapted to the realities and needs of SMEs may be beneficial to hundreds of thousands of workers, enterprises and professionals involved in the RTW process. Show more

Keywords: Organizational practices, best practices, phenomenology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210763

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 265-281, 2023

Authors: Zhang, Renjie | Niu, Jianwei | Ran, Linghua

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Assessing working posture risks is important for occupational safety and health. However, low-cost assessment techniques for human motion injuries in the logistics delivery industry have rarely been reported. OBJECTIVE: To propose a novel approach for posture risk assessment using low-cost motion capture with artificial intelligence. METHODS: A Kinect was adopted to obtain red-green-blue (RGB) and depth images of the subject with 24 postures, and the human joints were extracted using artificial intelligence. The images were registered to obtain the actual three-dimensional (3D) human joint angle. RESULTS: The root mean square error (RMSE) significantly …decreased. Finally, two common methods for evaluating human working posture injuries—the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment and Ovako Working Posture Analysis System—were investigated. CONCLUSIONS: The outputs of the proposed method are consistent with those of the commercial ergonomic evaluation software. Show more

Keywords: Posture risk assessment, low-cost motion capture, artificial intelligence, Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205204

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 283-293, 2023

Authors: DiRocco, Tara | Hall-Nelson, Brianna | Carlson, Ingrid | Corrigan, John | Kutcher, Stephanie | Mertz, Patrick | Nelson-Wong, Erika

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Adjustable height sit-stand desks are becoming the norm in many workplaces. It is not known how task type, worker preference, and occupation impact utilization of the adjustable height feature. OBJECTIVE: This survey-based study aimed to determine how task type, preference and occupation affect office workers’ sitting and standing behaviors at work. METHODS: Office workers (n  = 123) from different occupations completed surveys about actual and preferred positions (sit, stand, either/both) during 39 common tasks from 4 different categories, as well as barriers to use. Each position was analyzed by task type, behavior, and occupation. …RESULTS: There were differences between actual and preferred behavior for each position, with participants sitting more and standing less than preferred across all task categories. There were differences between task categories with participants sitting less for generative and routine, and standing more for communication tasks. The highest rates of either/both responses were for routine tasks. Engineers reported the lowest standing rates, and also indicated standing more than preferred. Information Tech and Engineering had the highest either/both responses. Finance reported the highest sitting rates. Personal, task-based and workplace limitations were cited as barriers to preferred use. CONCLUSION: Office workers would prefer to stand more at work. Occupation-specific needs and preferences, as well as types of tasks should be considered when providing workplace standing options. Show more

Keywords: Height adjustable desk, sedentary work, ergonomics, height adjustable workstation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211274

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 295-308, 2023

Authors: Hassani, Mehrdad | Kabiesz, Patrycja | Hesampour, Reza | Ezbarami, Sahebeh Mirzaei | Bartnicka, Joanna

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Activities performed by people in the meat processing industry are very repetitive, time-consuming, dangerous, and require long-term downtime during a shift (forced-static position). OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and working conditions among Polish and Iranian workers to fill this research gap. METHODS: A comparative analysis of the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in developed and developing countries was conducted. After selecting the target factories, data was collected using Nordic and Mental Stress Questionnaires and 3DSSPP software with the participation of 110 meat processing workers, including 55 Iranian and 55 …Polish. RESULTS: This study showed nearly the same prevalence of MSDs among male Iranian and Polish workers, especially in elbow, wrist/hand, upper back, hip/thigh, and ankle/foot. The overall prevalence of MSDs was relatively high and connected to the lower back (38%, 64%), knee (40%, 24%), neck (24%, 42%), and upper back (24%, 34.5%), among Iranian and Polish workers, respectively. Assessment of logistic regression disclosed that the workplace is considerably associated with the elbow and the ankle/foot musculoskeletal pain, with 2.34 and 3.81 times more likely for the production room, respectively, among Iranian workers. CONCLUSION: Age, gender, type of occupation, work experience, smoking, insufficient physical activity, workplace, working postures, and stress level all affected the likelihood of MSDs happening in various body regions in both countries, implying that both individual and work-related (both physical and psychosocial) aspects should be taken into consideration when evaluating and managing such complaints in this workforce. Show more

Keywords: Meat industry, musculoskeletal disorders, risk factors, workplace, work conditions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211362

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 309-325, 2023

Authors: Jin, Haizhe | Xiao, Zhibin | Li, Mingming | Fu, Quanwei | Duffy, Vincent G.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Human error types and error factors are two important elements of error analysis. Understanding the relationship between them can contribute to new case analyses, the tendency of error occurrence statistics, error factor identification, and prevention of error recurrence. OBJECTIVE: To provide evidence and guidance for the prevention and improvement of medication communication errors by quantitatively exploring the relationship between error types and error factors. METHODS: Data were collected on self-reported errors in the medication administration process by nurses in all departments of three cooperative medical institutions, and an error sheet of specified style was adopted. …Error types were determined by the systematic human error reduction and prediction approach method and human cognition processes. Error factors were extracted using the root cause analysis combined with Berlo’s communication model, and the relationship between error types and error factors was quantitatively studied using the partial least-squares regression method. RESULTS: After a one-by-one analysis of 303 error cases, the communication errors occurring in the nursing medication process could be explained by six error types and 12 error factors. In addition, 20 correlation patterns between the error types and error factors were quantitatively obtained, and their path coefficient distributions ranged from 0.088 to 0.467. CONCLUSION: The results of this study may provide reference to understand errors and establish countermeasures from the statistics of error occurrence trends, extract error factors related to error types and determine key error factors. Show more

Keywords: Medication error, nursing communication process, error type, error factor, healthcare

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211221

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 327-339, 2023

Authors: DeMott, Beatrice | Aziz, Shahnaz | Wuensch, Karl | Dolbier, Christyn

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workaholism is conceptualized as a compulsive need to work incessantly, and it is related to numerous detrimental organizational and individual consequences. For that reason, it is imperative that researchers uncover possible variables that can alleviate its potentially harmful effects. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine the relationship between workaholism, psychological capital (PsyCap), physical health, and work stress. The potential mitigating role that PsyCap could play between workaholism and physical health, as well as work stress, was also examined. METHODS: Data on workaholism, PsyCap, physical health, and work stress were collected from 343 full-time faculty and …staff from a large Southeastern university. RESULTS: Results showed workaholism negatively related to physical health and positively related to work stress. Additionally, PsyCap had a positive relationship with physical health and a negative relationship with work stress. Moreover, PsyCap moderated the relationship between workaholism and work stress, such that as PsyCap increased, the relationship between workaholism and work stress weakened. CONCLUSIONS: PsyCap may be a fairly simple and cost-effective intervention for organizations to implement, as it can be learned through short training sessions. By incorporating PsyCap, organizations may be able to help mitigate levels of stress in their employees, specifically among those who suffer from workaholism. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, employee well-being, stress, physical health, moderation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210467

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 1, pp. 341-352, 2023