Work - Volume 74, issue 3

Authors: Suijkerbuijk, Yvonne | Nieuwenhuijsen, Karen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Return-to-work (RTW) perceptions and attitudes are predictive for future work participation in workers with mental health issues. OBJECTIVE: To identify what RTW perceptions and attitudes occupational health professionals recognize in sick-listed unemployed workers with mental health issues and how these perceptions and attitudes can be systematically assessed. METHODS: Four focus group sessions, each involving five-six different occupational health professionals, were held. The audio records were transcribed verbatim and coded by two researchers independently. A thematic analysis was conducted. RESULTS: Professionals recognized RTW perceptions and attitudes in sick-listed unemployed workers with mental health issues. …These perceptions and attitudes were described as characteristics of three modes in a process regarding RTW: the passive, ambivalent and active RTW mode. A passive RTW mode includes perceptions about not being able to work and an expectant attitude. The ambivalent RTW mode is characterized by uncertainty and ambivalence regarding RTW with a desire for occupational support. Workers in an active RTW mode have positive RTW perceptions and show job search behavior. A main theme was the flexible nature of RTW attitudes and perceptions, with workers switching between the passive, ambivalent and active RTW modes. For the assessment of the RTW mode, the professionals preferred personal contact, possibly with support of a tool. This enables them to ask specific questions and to observe non-verbal signs. CONCLUSIONS: Recurring assessments of the RTW mode can be helpful in identifying unemployed workers with mental health issues at risk of long-term sickness absence and for starting targeted RTW interventions. Show more

Keywords: Mental illness, self-efficacy, sick leave, vocational counseling, occupational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210434

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 891-906, 2023

Authors: Severinsson, Yvonne | Grimby-Ekman, Anna | Nordeman, Lena | Holmgren, Kristina | Käll, Lina Bunketorp | Dottori, Maria | Larsson, Maria EH

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: To address the increase in sick leave for nonspecific chronic pain and mental illness, the Swedish government and the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions entered into an agreement on a “Rehabilitation Guarantee” to carry out multimodal rehabilitation (MMR). OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether components of primary care MMR are associated with changes in sick leave. METHODS: A web-based survey was conducted in conjunction with a retrospective cross-sectional observational study of 53 MMR units. Sick leave data for the years before and after MMR completion was collected for 846 individuals. RESULTS: There was …great disparity in how MMR was delivered. The average duration of rehabilitation was 4–8 weeks, and 74% of the MMR teams reported having fewer patients than recommended (≥20/year). Only 58% of the teams met the competence requirements. In-depth competence in pain relief and rehabilitation was reported by 45% of the teams and was significantly associated with fewer sick leave days after MMR (26.53, 95% CI: 3.65; 49.42), as were pain duration (17.83, 95% CI: –9.20; 44.87) and geographic proximity (23.75, 95% CI: –5.25; 52.75) of the health care professionals included in the MMR unit. CONCLUSIONS: In-depth competence and knowledge about the complex health care needs of patients seem essential to MMR teams’ success in reducing sickness benefits for patients with nonspecific chronic pain and mental illness. Further research is needed to elucidate the optimal combination of primary care MMR components for increasing the return-to work rate and to determine whether involvement of the Social Insurance Agency or employers could support and further contribute to recuperation and help patients regain their previous work capacity. Show more

Keywords: Bio-psycho-social rehabilitation, multimodal rehabilitation, multidisciplinary rehabilitation, sick leave

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210836

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 907-917, 2023

Authors: Bettac, Erica L. | Probst, Tahira M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite considerable differences in national work-family (WF) policies offered in countries around the world, research concerning the implications of such policies for employee reactions to work-family and family-work conflict (WFC/FWC) is limited. OBJECTIVE: The current study examines the contextual role of country-level national WF policies as a moderator of the relationships between individual-level WFC/FWC and job stress, job satisfaction, turnover intentions, organizational commitment, and general health. METHODS: Using archival data sources, the ISSP Work Orientations Survey (2015) and the WORLD Policy Analysis Center Adults Labor Database (2014), multilevel analyses tested the predicted cross-level interaction effect …in a sample of 49,637 individuals (54% female; M age  = 48 years) nested across 36 countries. RESULTS: Results were largely counter to expectations: while more supportive national WF policies attenuated the positive relationship between FWC and job stress, it exacerbated the negative relationships between WFC and organizational commitment, WFC and job stress, and FWC and general health. CONCLUSIONS: Our study responds to calls to consider phenomena functioning at multiple levels of analysis. While reactions were more negative in countries with more robust national-level policies, it suggests an unexpected dark side of such policies. That is, it may not be enough to legislate the availability of national-level policies; it may also be needed to ensure that such policies are meeting employees’ needs. Show more

Keywords: work-family conflict, family-work conflict, national work-family policies, job stress, job satisfaction, turnover intentions, organizational commitment, general health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205010

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 919-944, 2023

Authors: Biswas, Mrinmoy | Pranav, Prabhanjan Kumar | Nag, Pranab Kumar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Paddy milling is the oldest and largest agro-processing industry in India. A large number of workers are employed in the rice mills where they are potentially exposed to dust. It has been shown that exposure to dust results in a high prevalence of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, extrinsic allergic alveoli ties, toxic syndrome, and interstitial lung disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dust on rice mill workers’ health using lung function tests with comparison to an unexposed population. PARTICIPANTS: Two hundred eighteen rice mill workers …(exposed volunteers) were randomly selected from 25 rice mills in Assam, India. Participants were 18-60 years with at least one year of work experience. Further, 377 volunteers who were not exposed to dust and having similar demographic characteristics also participated as a control group. METHOD: Pulmonary function tests were conducted for all participants by spirometry. The tests included forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC (%), peak expiratory flow (PEF) and forced expiratory flow during the middle half of a forced vital capacity (FEF25-75%). Values from exposed workers were compared with the unexposed volunteers. RESULTS: It was observed that the lung function parameters FVC, FEV1, PEF and FEF25-75% in exposed workers were significantly decreased compared with unexposed volunteers. There were also significantly decreased FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC%, PEF and FEF25-75% with increase in age and duration of dust exposure. It was further observed that 48% and 32% of the total male and female volunteers, respectively, had evidence of lung disease. Irrespective of gender, approximately 45% of mill workers had evidence of lung disease, of which 21% was restrictive and 24% was obstructive. CONCLUSION: Compared with unexposed controls, rice mill workers have a greater prevalence of respiratory disease based on pulmonary function tests. Show more

Keywords: Rice mill, Lung function, spirometer, dust exposure, lung disease

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205146

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 945-953, 2023

Authors: Carneiro Lucas, Ruan Eduardo | da Silva, Luiz Bueno | de Souza, Erivaldo Lopes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The scientific literature has already identified the influence of thermal conditions on health and performance of students. However, users’ opinions are often overwhelmed by normative evaluations, not receiving the necessary attention. OBJECTIVE: To quantitatively compare the influence of air temperature variability on the thermal perception of students from six air-conditioned teaching environments located in four regions of Brazil. METHODS: Three-day experiments were carried out in six environments. A thermal condition was proposed for each day. From that, the environmental parameters were measured and a questionnaire about the thermal perception was applied. Then, Generalized Linear Models …were applied to obtain a measure of effect and hypothesis test and confidence interval were used to find comfort zones and compare environments. RESULTS: The results showed that students from environments A, B, C and E felt less the effects of the increase in air temperature compared to students from environments D and F. In addition, students from environments A, B, C and E showed less perceptual variability compared to students from environments D and F. CONCLUSIONS: Students acclimated to higher thermal conditions felt less the effects of the increase in air temperature, showed less perceptual variability and a higher degree of thermal adaptability. Show more

Keywords: Teaching environment, students, air temperature, thermal comfort, thermal perception

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205324

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 955-966, 2023

Authors: Ataei, Pouria | Moradhaseli, Somayeh | Karimi, Hamid | Abbasi, Enayat

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Noise in work environments is regarded as a serious issue. Hearing loss leads to socio-economic problems and huge costs to families and communities. Agriculture is one of the professions in which individuals face occupational noise. Farmers are the second leading group in suffering from hearing loss in the world. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to predict the hearing protection behavior of farmers by using the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). METHOD: This descriptive study was conducted through a survey. The questionnaire was the main tool for data collection. The population of the study consisted of wheat farmers …in Kermanshah province (N  = 126,900). By using Krejcie and Morgan’s table and stratified random sampling method, 382 farmers were taken as the research sample. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by the experts of this field, and the reliability was proved through a pilot study to calculate Cronbach’s alpha. RESULTS: The findings showed that perceived self-efficacy, perceived response efficacy, perceived vulnerability, and perceived response costs had the strongest effects on farmers’ motivation to protect their hearing, respectively. Furthermore, protection motivation had a significant effect on farmers’ protection behavior. CONCLUSION: Threat and coping appraisals as cognitive mediating processes determined farmers’ behavior for hearing protection. The results illustrated that the components of PMT were appropriate predictors of farmers’ hearing protection behavior. Show more

Keywords: Protection behavior, farmers, hearing protection, Protection Motivation Theory, hearing loss

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210009

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 967-976, 2023

Authors: Gorbenko, Ksenia | Romanchuk, Kathryn | Sagliocca, Franco | Mazumdar, Madhu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: No studies have examined how health care mergers and acquisitions affected the hospital supply chain and its employees since the passing of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. OBJECTIVE: To describe the barriers and facilitators of digital transformation in a hospital supply chain from the employee perspective. METHODS: We conducted two rounds of interviews, one year apart, with supply chain employees at an urban academic health system preparing to adopt an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software (N  = 11 in Round I and N  = 8 in Round II). Two researchers coded transcripts for themes using …NVivo 11. RESULTS: We identified the following barriers to technology integration: silos between supply chain groups (e.g. Purchasing, Information Management, Strategic Sourcing), between employees and management, and resulting from prior mergers; focus on short-term problems and fear of change; and lack of transparent communication about upcoming changes. Facilitators of technology integration included motivation to work in supply chain; long-term vision that allowed tolerance of change and positive outlook; and transparent communication. CONCLUSION: Desire for shared leadership among employees emerged as a major theme, indicating the need for active involvement of employees during transition to new integrative technology. Show more

Keywords: Decision making/process, health service, hospital supply chain, ERP, qualitative

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210081

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 977-990, 2023

Authors: de Souza e Silva, Douglas | das Merces, Magno Conceição | Lua, Iracema | Coelho, Julita Maria Freitas | Santana, Amália Ivine Costa | Reis, Dandara Almeida | Barbosa, Caroline da Silva | D’Oliveira Júnior, Argemiro

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Burnout Syndrome (BS) is a response of organism against long-lasting exposure to occupational stressors. Those affected usually have comorbidities, as well as cardiovascular and metabolic problems. OBJECTIVE: Estimating the association between BS and obesity in primary health care nurses of in the state of Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: Population-analytical, cross-confirmatory, integrated and multicenter study, conducted with a random sample of primary health care nursing professionals in 43 municipalities from 07 mesoregions of Bahia, Brazil. This study was funded by the Brazilian Board for Scientific and Technological Development. The independent variable (BS) was evaluated by using the …Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) scale, and the dependent one (obesity) was based on the Body Mass Index (BMI)≥30. Effect modification and confounding factors were verified by crude, stratified, and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: The prevalence of BS and obesity was 17.7% and 12.7%, respectively. BS was statistically associated with obesity, even after adjustment (RPa: 1.85; CI 95% 1.11–3.06) per gender, age, physical activity, healthy eating, satisfaction with occupation, another job, night shift, primary health care (PHC) time, and working conditions. Effect-modifying variables were not identified. CONCLUSIONS: The specialized literature points out a path to the association identified here. New studies on the subject are relevant and should have more robust methodologies so that the path of causality is better clarified. In addition, occupational health programs become an alternative to control stress and, therefore, its complications, such as burnout and other health aggravations. Show more

Keywords: Psychological burnout, occupational stress, obesity, body mass index, epidemiology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210245

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 991-1000, 2023

Authors: Xiaolong, Tao | Gull, Nida | Asghar, Muhammad | Sarfraz, Muddassar | Jianmin, Zhang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The study’s value is based on a complete understanding of the employee polychronicity–employee intention to leave the relationship in the health care sector. OBJECTIVE: This study examines (1) the role of job engagement in alleviating the relationship between employee polychronicity and intention to leave, and (2) the moderating impact of perceived supervisor support as a relationship. METHOD: This study employed a cross-cultural research design and collected data from nurses working in public sector hospitals. Through job engagement and perceived supervisor support (PSS), the effect of nurses’ polychronicity on turnover intention was examined using the PLS-SEM …approach. RESULTS: The findings of this study demonstrate that employee polychronicity has an impact on employee turnover. Employee engagement appears to operate as a mediator in the association between employee polychronicity and intention to leave and a moderating effect of PSS. CONCLUSION: By emphasizing employee engagement as a mediator and moderating role, the perceived supervisor supports the association between polychronicity and intention to leave of nurses. This study offered a crisp perspective on the complexities of the links between polychronicity, engagement, perceived organizational support, and employees’ intention to leave. Show more

Keywords: Multitasking behavior, polychronicity, healthcare workers, supervisor support, turnover intention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210509

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1001-1013, 2023

Authors: Nguyen, Thi Thu Huong | Sendall, Marguerite C. | White, Katherine M. | Young, Ross McD

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Vietnamese medical students believe becoming “strong” drinkers is important for their future career working as doctor. However, it is unclear if this is a temporary behaviour associated with life as a student, or a phenomenon associated with the transition to working as a medical practitioner. OBJECTIVE: This study explored changes in alcohol-related perceptions and behaviour among Vietnamese early career doctors working after graduation. METHODS: In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 Vietnamese early career doctors in Hanoi city. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. RESULTS: Vietnamese early career doctors perceived binge …drinking as common among doctors, especially male doctors, surgeons, and preventive medicine doctors. This perception was different from when they were medical students because, at that time, they believed doctors would not drink alcohol at hazardous levels. Additionally, Vietnamese early career doctors’ drinking behaviour changed in the frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption after graduation due to peer pressure, job stress, working collaborations, and working environment. CONCLUSIONS: Vietnamese early career doctors changed their alcohol-related perceptions and behaviour after graduation. Gender, mental health (stress), factors related to the working environment, and the role of professional relationships should be considered in strategies to reduce risky alcohol consumption among Vietnamese early career doctors. Show more

Keywords: Binge drinking, early career doctors, qualitative, Vietnam

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210847

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1015-1026, 2023

Authors: Silva Costa, Gerferson André | Modena, Celina Maria | de Oliveira, Fabiana Goulart

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health promotion is an important strategy for companies as it helps identify risks at work and the health needs of workers. Nursing, as a profession committed to promoting decent work, plays an important role in this strategy. OBJECTIVE: This manuscript aims to discuss the experience of the Nursing Service in the construction of knowledge about work, to support actions in favor of health promotion. METHODS: This is a discussion article in the field of occupational health conducted at a Research Center in the nuclear area. RESULTS: Based on actions centered on guidelines on …lifestyles and scheduling visits to the workplace, with the Internal Public Health Commission, limitations were identified that allowed us to discuss and understand the role of nurses as occupational health professionals. CONCLUSION: Knowing the work and understanding it in its specificities and limitations of the production process has allowed to expand the possibilities of action with workers to transform working conditions and promote health. Show more

Keywords: Nursing, health promotion, work, occupational health, health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210978

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1027-1033, 2023

Authors: Aslan, Mustafa | Lee, Yu-Feng L. | Yaman, Fatih | Aksu, Ayhan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work stress and feeling of entrapment are harmful physical and emotional results for employees when the workload demands exceed their capacities. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the effects of the career management system and succession plan on employees’ work stress and feelings of entrapment in hopes of improving employees’ well-being to promote business continuity. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, the convenient sampling method was adopted. The research was conducted with the participation of call center agents (n  = 621) of three call centers in Turkey. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) path analysis …was performed on the collected data for hypothesis testing. RESULTS: Both career management systems (CMS) and succession plans (SP) reduce employees’ work stress and feelings of entrapment. Work stress was found to mediate the effects of CMS and SP on the Feeling of Entrapment. The CMS reduces the work stress of employees with university degrees than those with a high school diploma. Meanwhile, SP reduces more of the feeling of entrapment for employees newly starting their jobs (with 0–2 years of seniority) than the workers with three or more years of seniority. CONCLUSION: Empirically, the feeling of entrapment seems higher among the employees with three or more years of seniority, suggesting that human resource management should focus on employees’ work stress and feeling of job insecurity issues and offer possible and timely solutions. Furthermore, organizations showing care to newly arriving staff and giving them job assurance is believed crucial to improving employees’ recruitment and retention. Show more

Keywords: Entrapment, work stress, succession plan, career management system

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211096

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1035-1054, 2023

Authors: Augustina, S. Jenifer | Suganthirababu, Prathap | Rajagopal, Vijayaraghavan | Kumaresan, A. | Srinivasan, Vignesh | Ramana, K. | Kamalakannan, M. | Alagesan, Jagatheesan | Prathap, Lavanya

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In today’s fast-paced world, both men and women have to be equally competent to handle their responsibilities in order to look after their family members and children. In this pace of competency women tend to forget to take care of their own health and face many health issues, including pelvic floor dysfunction. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyse the prevalence rate of pelvic floor dysfunction among the working women in regards to their age and body mass index as well as their quality of life. METHODS: One hundred sixty one post-partum working female participants from …the medical fraternity were involved in this study after their consent was obtained. Pelvic floor muscle strength was assessed and their quality of life measured using King’s health questionnaire. RESULTS: There was a strong correlation between the pelvic floor muscle dysfunction and its impact on the quality of life among the females with increasing age. Significant statistical significant difference of P(<0.0001) was noted. CONCLUSION: Pelvic floor dysfunction among females has a direct impact on their quality of life. Show more

Keywords: BMI, periniometer, quality of life, physiological changes, medical professional

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211125

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1055-1059, 2023

Authors: Boelhouwer, Ingrid G. | Vermeer, Willemijn | van Vuuren, Tinka

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The number of workers who have previously undergone a cancer treatment is increasing, and possible late treatment effects (fatigue, physical and cognitive complaints) may affect work ability. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of late treatment effects and of job resources (autonomy, supportive leadership style, and colleagues’ social support) on the future work ability of employees living 2–10 years beyond a breast cancer diagnosis. METHODS: Data at T1 (baseline questionnaire) and at T2 (9 months later) were collected in 2018 and 2019 (N  = 287) among Dutch-speaking workers with a breast …cancer diagnosis 2–10 years ago. Longitudinal regression analyses, controlling for years since diagnosis, living with cancer (recurrence or metastasis), other chronic or severe diseases, and work ability at baseline were executed. RESULTS: Higher levels of fatigue and cognitive complaints at baseline predicted lower future work ability. The three job resources did not predict higher future work ability, but did relate cross-sectionally with higher work ability at baseline. Autonomy negatively moderated the association between physical complaints and future work ability. CONCLUSIONS: Fatigue and cognitive complaints among employees 2–10 years past breast cancer diagnosis need awareness and interventions to prevent lower future work ability. Among participants with average or high levels of physical complaints, there was no difference in future work ability between medium and high autonomy. However, future work ability was remarkably lower when autonomy was low. Show more

Keywords: Autonomy, cognitive or physical complaints, fatigue, social support by colleagues, supportive leadership style

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211288

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1061-1076, 2023

Authors: Salguero-Caparrós, F. | Rubio-Romero, J.C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The choice of the “right” methodology to carry out the occupational accident investigation process is not an easy task. Each methodology has different conceptual and practical characteristics. The choice will depend to a large extent on the conceptual accident model being used. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study has been to evaluate and compare a set of nine methodologies recognised as the most widely used in the field of occupational accident investigation. METHODS: For this purpose, six evaluation criteria are used which have already been applied and validated by the scientific community with a clear …emphasis on the holistic nature of these methodologies. RESULTS: The results show a detailed analysis of the conceptual, methodological and practical characteristics of the nine selected occupational accident investigation methodologies. The conceptual framework of each of the methodologies, their holistic characteristics in terms of whether they cover the complete information cycle and its possible interrelation, reliability and validity of the methodologies, the experience required for their application, the flexibility in terms of being able to be used in different work environments and finally the ability of the methodology to motivate organisational improvement are presented. CONCLUSIONS: From this study, it is clear that the analysis of occupational accident investigation it is becoming increasingly necessary to employ scientific methodologies with a clear proactive approach in order to meet the challenges of changing socio-technical systems. Show more

Keywords: Occupational safety and health, occupational accident investigation, evaluation criteria and comparison, holistic approach, Industry 5.0

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211297

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1077-1089, 2023

Authors: Kim, Jun-Hee | Yi, Chung-Hwi | Jeon, Hye-Seon | Choi, Woochol Joseph | Weon, Jong-Hyuck | Kwon, Oh-Yun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The occurrence of subacromial pain syndrome (SPS) is associated with the frequent handling and lifting of heavy loads and excessive repetitive work. Thus, assembly workers have a high prevalence of SPS. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in shoulder ROM, muscle strength, asymmetry ratio, function, productivity, and depression between workers with and without SPS. METHODS: Sixty-seven male workers (35 workers with SPS and 32 workers without SPS) participated in this study. Shoulder internal rotation (SIR), shoulder external rotation (SER), shoulder abduction (SAB), shoulder horizontal adduction ROM and SIR, SER, elbow flexion …(EF), scapular depression and adduction, scapular protraction strength were measured. The asymmetry ratio was calculated using the asymmetry ratio formula; shoulder functions were measured using the shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI), disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH), and visual analogue scale (VAS); and Endicott work productivity scale (EWPS). RESULTS: The SPADI (p  = 0.001), DASH (p  = 0.001), and VAS (p  = 0.001) values of workers with SPS were higher than those of workers without SPS. Also, workers with SPS had lower SIR (p  = 0.001) and SAB (p  = 0.002) ROM compared to workers without SPS. In addition, workers with SPS exhibited lower SIR (p  = 0.012) strength than workers without SPS. Workers with SPS had higher asymmetry ratio in SIR (p  = 0.015), SER (p  = 0.005), and EF (p  = 0.008) strength than workers without SPS. CONCLUSIONS: The SIR, SAB ROM, SIR strength, and the asymmetry ratio of SIR, SER, EF strengths could provide an important baseline comparison for the workers with SPS. Show more

Keywords: Subacromial pain syndrome, musculoskeletal disease, range of motion, muscle strength, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211310

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1091-1101, 2023

Authors: Liu, Quanlong | Wang, Jingzhi | Zhang, Xiaolin | Shang, Jianping

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The construction of a safety culture in coal mine enterprises is an essential component of coal mine safety management. Current studies do not address the mechanism for forming and constructing systems for coal mine enterprise safety culture, and many studies are based on imperfect theoretical frameworks and unsystematic empirical research, their policy recommendations are not systematic or operable, and they offer no feasible safety culture construction system. OBJECTIVE: This study is devoted to analysing the theoretical basis of safety culture construction in coal mine enterprises from the perspective of hazards and proposing the content, stages and targets …of constructing a safety culture and develops pragmatic approaches for coal mining enterprises to improve safety culture. METHODS: A theoretical basis for safety culture construction in coal mine enterprises is proposed from the perspective of hazards by considering accident-causing mechanisms based on hazards. Furthermore, this study applied the case analysis and application to conduct empirical research on the proposed theoretical basis for safety culture construction from the perspective of hazards. RESULTS: Four aspects are proposed to capture the content and objectives of safety culture construction from the perspective of hazards: safety concept, behaviour safety, material state safety, and safety institutions. Furthermore, this paper provides a case study of safety culture construction by the Yimei coal group from the perspective of hazards, identifies the hazards based on the above four aspects, and then identifies preventative measures and controls for the identified hazards. CONCLUSIONS: Constructing a safety culture in coal mine enterprises from the perspective of hazards is operable and practical, and thus this study provides essential theoretical and practical value for improving coal mine safety. Show more

Keywords: Coal mine safety, safety culture, hazards, risk management, case study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211317

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1103-1114, 2023

Authors: Sadeghi, Fatemeh | Dehdashti, Alireza | Gilani, Neda | Fatemi, Farin | Alizadeh, Seyed Shamseddin | Khoshmanesh, Behnoush

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chemical accidents have imposed casualties and high economic and social consequences to Iranian industries and society. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effect of risk factors involved in occurrences of the chemical accidents and predicted the time of occurrences in Iranian chemical factories. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was implemented in 574 chemical facilities with more than 25 employees from 2018 to 2020. Collecting data instruments were 2 checklists with 15 and 25 three-point Likert scale questions, respectively. Chi square and Monte Carlo tests assessed the relationships between independent risk factors and dependent hazardous chemical accidents. Cox …semi-parametric and log-normal parametric models were used to predict the upcoming time of chemical accidents based on the impacts of risk factors understudy. Data analyses were performed using Stata and R software. RESULTS: The results showed that safety data sheets, labeling, fire extinguishing system, safe chemicals storage, separation, loading, transportation and training were statistically significant with occurrences of the chemical accidents (P -value < 0.05). Loading and transportation were mostly related to chemical incidents and reduced significantly the expected time of chemical events (P -value = 0.028). CONCLUSION: Establishing a comprehensive chemical accidents dataset and strict governmental supervision on chemical safety regulations are suggested to decrease the chemical accidents at regional and local levels in chemical plants. Show more

Keywords: Chemical accidents, survival analysis, risk factors, safety

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211333

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1115-1124, 2023

Authors: Maayah, Mikhled Falah | Abdel-aziem, Amr Almaz | Arafah, Alaa Mohammad | Gaowgzeh, Riziq Allah | Neamatallah, Ziyad | Alfawaz, Saad S. | Mysore, Sunitha

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorder symptoms affecting adults’ health in the workplace including academic settings. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of LBP among academic teaching staff at King Abdulaziz University, as well as to identify its socio-demographic and work-related risk factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional study design was used to estimate the prevalence of LBP and the risk factors in 123 academic teaching staff members at King Abdulaziz University. Data on LBP history and disability using Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), work-related and socio-demographic characteristics of study participants were collected …using a semi-structured questionnaire. The prevalence of low back pain data was analyzed using frequency and percentage descriptive statistics, and Chi-square was used to identify group differences. RESULTS: A total of 123 academic teaching staff with a mean age of 37.5 years old of whom 79 (64.2%) were females and 44 (35.8%) were males completed a self-administrative questionnaire. Using a self-rating scale, approximately a quarter of academic teaching staff had moderate disability 25.2%; 4.9% had a severe disability; only one subject 0.8% was crippled. There has been a significant relationship between the number of years of experience and the extent of low back disability (P  < 0.05). The Chi-square test revealed 56.3% of takes part with 11–15 years of experience have moderate disability relative to those with 0–5 years of experience (11.1%). There was a trend towards significance among academic teaching staff for the effect of the faculty stream on low back disability (P  = 0.077, Chi-square test revealed teaching staff in the medical stream had the highest percentage of participates with minimal disability (78.7%) whereas in the scientific stream had the lowest percentage of minimal disability (52%). CONCLUSION: The findings of this study have shown that there is a major problem of low back pain among academic staff at King Abdulaziz University and that the situation in other higher education institutions in Saudi Arabia is changing. Show more

Keywords: University teaching staff, low back pain, prevalence, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211389

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1125-1133, 2023

Authors: de Sousa Figueira, Andrea | Reis Costa, Stella Regina | Ferraz, Fernando Toledo | Rampasso, Izabela Simon | Resende, David Nunes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Organizational changes in the traditional work models demand studies on the management of the so called “Teleworking”. OBJECTIVE: This research aims to analyse the teleworking management practices to subside organizations and leaders to improve their performance and enhance workers quality of life. METHODS: A survey was carried out with teleworkers to obtain their perception of the analyzed factors, using the survey monkey tool. The collected data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares – Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). RESULTS: The validated model for the practices analysis is composed of the constructs: business management, physical …and people infrastructure, leadership, self-esteem, and job satisfaction. Based on the analysis carried out, it is suggested that organizations establish organizational telework policies, follow government policies and provide communication and competence plans. Moreover, it is crucial providing technologies and support to them and develop people management practices in teleworking. Leaders must provide confidence, a teleworking culture, professional advancement, integration, well-being, negotiation of goals and a training plan. The teleworker’s satisfaction is due to the sustainability related to the work model and its choice defined by personal motivation, balance between personal and professional life and a sense of belonging. CONCLUSIONS: All variables observed, linked to the constructs and validated, can be considered by managers to improve human resource management and obtain better productivity results. Show more

Keywords: Remote work, strategic human resource management, quality of life at work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211401

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1135-1148, 2023

Authors: Spjelkavik, Øystein | Enehaug, Heidi | Klethagen, Pål | Howe, Emilie Isager | Fure, Silje C.R. | Terjesen, Hans C.A. | Løvstad, Marianne | Andelic, Nada

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While a vast amount of research focuses on unmodifiable and individual factors that may impact return to work (RTW) for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), less knowledge exists of the relationship between specific workplace factors and work retention. OBJECTIVE: Identify types of accommodation in the workplace that influence the RTW process for employees with TBI and the challenges associated with them. METHODS: A multiple case study consisting of 38 cases and 109 interviews of employees with TBI and their managers conducted between 2017 and 2020 at two time points. RESULTS: Accommodation of …both the organizational and psychosocial work environment influences RTW for employees with TBI. Social support and supportive management may have positive and negative effects. RTW is often not a linear process. Over time, maintaining and developing customized accommodation in the work organization is challenging. CONCLUSIONS: Uncertainty about accommodation in RTW for employees with TBI is closely linked to lack of knowledge in the workplace of how to handle complex and nonlinear RTW processes. Work-oriented rehabilitation should to a greater extent provide managers with relevant information and support to develop the person-environment fit over time. Show more

Keywords: Job retention, management, reintegration, work environment, sick leave

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211440

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1149-1163, 2023

Authors: Abdelsalam, Noha M. | Ebaid, Amany M. | Abdelhady, Enas I. | Bolbol, Sarah A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes disabilities that affect people in working age and can impair their working activity and quality of life (QoL). OBJECTIVES: To assess work activity limitation and QoL among RA patients and to explore the associated risk factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional study on 344 RA patients was conducted at the outpatient clinic using a number of standardized questionnaires including the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, Workplace Activity Limitation Scale, and RA QoL. Clinical examinations were also performed including the measurement of pain intensity, assessment of disease activity, and the Rheumatoid Arthritis Severity Scale. …RESULTS: Most of the employed participants (87%) experienced high work activity limitations. Increasing work limitations were significantly associated with a decrease in QoL domains scores. The most significant risk factors affecting work limitation by logistic regression were high disease activity, the severity of the disease, married females, and a high health assessment disability index among RA patients. CONCLUSIONS: RA patients experience limitations that affect their productivity at work and their QoL. Paying more attention to early management to prevent the upcoming unfavorable health and economic consequences for RA patients is significantly important. Show more

Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis, work, quality of life, disability, productivity loss

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220008

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 3, pp. 1165-1172, 2023