Work - Volume 75, issue 3

Authors: Is, Enes Efe | Gudek, Kemal | Oral, Aydan | Sindel, Dilsad

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Upper extremity injuries may cause not only physical but also serious social and psychological problems in workers. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare demographic and work-related features of persons with hand injuries who sustained a work-related or a non-work-related injury to gain insights into possible predisposing factors for work-related injuries as well as psychosocial consequences of hand injuries from the social work perspective. METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 30 work-related and 30 non-work-related hand injury patients. The patients were evaluated using a questionnaire designed by the authors based on the …principles of social work involving demographics, work-related features, thought-emotion-behaviour features, family and friend relationships, need for family support and professional psychosocial support. Survey data from both groups were statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Fisher Exact test. RESULTS: When compared with the non-work-related hand injury group, the majority of the subjects of the work-related hand injury group were blue-collar workers (p  = 0.003), had a lower level of education (p  < 0.001), worked off-the-clock (p  = 0.015), held the employer responsible for the accident (p  < 0.001), needed more time to return to work (p  = 0.014), were worried about the future (p  = 0.045), and expressed loss of joy (p  = 0.004). CONCLUSION: Hand injuries, regardless of their relation to work, lead to important psychosocial problems which need to be evaluated widely and carefully focusing on the patient and patient’s environment, work environment in this case. Show more

Keywords: Occupational accidents, occupational injuries, hand injuries, social work, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211146

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 859-867, 2023

Authors: AlHeresh, Rawan | Simpson, Elizabeth | Allaire, Saralynn | Keysor, Julie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Work Experience Survey for Rheumatic Conditions (WES-RC) is a prominent feature of an evidence-based intervention to prevent premature job loss among people with arthritis. The WES-RC is used to identify client perceived barriers related to work performance. The degree to which people with arthritis and rheumatic conditions report barriers on the WES-RC has not been reported. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to characterize the barriers reported on the WES-RC. METHODS: Data from participants who completed the WES-RC in the “Work-It” study trial were included (N  = 143). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize …the sample and the frequency with which barriers on the WES-RC were reported. Responses to the top three bothersome barriers to study participants were summed. RESULTS: The mean age of the sample was 50.3 years; 73% were female, and 66% white. All WES-RC items were checked as a barrier by at least two participants; less than 10 participants checked 34 items. Barriers in the ‘getting ready for work and traveling to and from, or for work’ domain, were frequently reported. The most bothersome barriers were ‘standing or being on feet too long’ and ‘prolonged sitting’. CONCLUSION: The WES-RC is a self-reported checklist that captures a wide breadth of work-related barriers that could be experienced by people with arthritis who are currently employed. Show more

Keywords: Work disability, arthritis, occupational therapy, physical therapy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211147

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 869-875, 2023

Authors: Rafiq, Muhammad | Farrukh, Muhammad | Attiq, Saman | Shahzad, Fakhar | Khan, Imran

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The demand for innovation and satisfaction is increasing rapidly due to technological advancement and the fast-changing business environment. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to investigate how job crafting augments work outputs (i.e., innovation performance and career satisfaction) through work engagement. METHODS: Data were collected from 477 workers working in the Pakistan manufacturing sector. A structural equation modeling technique was used to investigate the mediation model. RESULTS: Job crafting has a direct and indirect association with innovation performance and career satisfaction – via employees’ work engagement. Additionally, the mediating impact was stronger …for innovation performance than for career satisfaction. The findings advocate that managers should pay attention to employees’ job crafting to improve employees’ work engagement in manufacturing organizations. To improve employees’ innovation performance and career satisfaction via work engagement, it is important to improve organization-wide job crafting in traditional manufacturing organizations. Strategic and managerial actions related to job crafting might boost employees’ engagement in the organization that environments provide incessantly better outcomes. CONCLUSION: By linking job crafting and work engagement to their attitude towards career satisfaction and innovation performance in Pakistani manufacturing firms, this study adds a new dimension to the study of Pakistani manufacturing employees and typically to the best practices in career debates. This knowledge is important and unique because it accentuates that in addition to work engagement, which focuses primarily on employee growth in the organization, job crafting should also be given equal importance to advance manufacturing employees’ outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Career satisfaction, innovation performance, work engagement, job crafting, Pakistan

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211363

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 877-886, 2023

Authors: Cevik, Celalettin | Ozdemir, Raziye | Ari, Sezgin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pesticide poisoning is a serious public health problem. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to investigate the effect of safe pesticide application training given to farmers on their behaviors towards compliance with protective measures. METHODS: In this interventional study, the target population was 9750 farmers living in Turkey. To achieve a study power of 95%, type I error and the effect size were assumed as 5% and 0.50 respectively. In the study, 61 farmers were selected using the systematic sampling method. Farmers were interviewed twice, before and after the training, and at each interview, they were asked …questions about their pesticide use-related behaviors in the last four sprayings. In the analysis, the paired t-test, repeated measures of ANOVA (post hoc: Bonferroni) were used. RESULTS: The scores the participants obtained from the Pesticide Exposure Prevention Behavior Form which questions their compliance with protective measures taken during pesticide applications at the post-interview were significantly higher than were the scores they obtained at the pre-interview (P  < 0.001). The analysis of the independent variables demonstrated that the scores obtained from the Pesticide Exposure Prevention Behavior Form at the post-interview were significantly different from those obtained at the pre-interview in almost all of the subgroups in terms of their sociodemographic characteristics. CONCLUSION: It was observed that the training given to the farmers on the safe use of pesticides encouraged the farmers to develop positive behavioral changes. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing ongoing health education programs for farmers. Show more

Keywords: Pesticide, intervention, practice, farmer, health promotion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211380

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 887-897, 2023

Authors: Li, Hui | Khattak, Shoukat Iqbal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The domain of faculty internationalization is under-researched, especially in the context of China. Extant research does not lend itself to applied insight, despite offering theoretical and methodological precision. OBJECTIVE: Based on the motivational systems theory, this study developed a parsimonious measure of overall faculty motivation (including capacity beliefs, context beliefs, emotions, and goals) and investigated its effect on work performance through the mediating effect of engagement in internationalization among faculty in a Chinese research-centric university. METHODS: Data of 229 faculty members were analyzed using a structural equation modeling approach. RESULTS: Faculty responses indicated …that: i) the second-order overall faculty motivation scale is superior to individual items in measuring the effect of overall faculty motivation on faculty engagement and work performance; ii) overall faculty motivation positively influences faculty engagement; iii) overall faculty motivation promotes work performance; iv) faculty engagement mediates the relationship between overall faculty motivation and work performance. CONCLUSION: Faculty responses indicated that the effect of the second-order overall faculty motivation construct is superior to individual items in terms of its effect sizes on faculty engagement and work performance. More so, the measurement model showed that overall faculty motivation exerts a direct and indirect (faculty engagement) positive effect on work performance. Chinese universities should align the goals, capacity belief, context belief, and emotions of faculty with national/institutional goals to yield superior engagement for better performance. Show more

Keywords: Goals, beliefs, emotions, work performance, faculty

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211394

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 899-915, 2023

Authors: Kanaan, Saddam F. | Abu Hanna, Annie M. | Hadoush, Hikmat | Khalil, Hanan | Almhdawi, Khader

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Job satisfaction among physiotherapists has been studied in many developing and developed countries, but not yet in areas recently affected by wars and refugee crises in the Middle East, including Jordan, Lebanon, West Bank, and Gaza regions. OBJECTIVES: To explore physiotherapists’ job satisfaction in Jordan, Lebanon, West Bank, and Gaza and examine differences in job satisfaction according to regions, gender, academic qualifications, and years of clinical experience. METHODS: A cross-sectional study using a self-administered online questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of participants’ characteristics and a 17-items Likert scale of job satisfaction. RESULTS: A total …of 413 participants completed the online questionnaire. Most of the respondents were older than 27 years (55%), males (53.8%), and holding a bachelor’s degree (70.2%), and had 5–10 years of experience (70.4%). The overall job satisfaction was 66.1%. There was no significant difference in job satisfaction according to the region in all questionnaire items. Female physiotherapists reported higher satisfaction in receiving career advice (p  = .013). In many items, physiotherapists with higher qualifications and longer years of experience reported higher satisfaction (p  < 0.05). Salaries and remunerations, lack of continuing education support, and lack of evidence-based practice in the workplace were the main reasons for job dissatisfaction. CONCLUSION: To improve physiotherapy job satisfaction, healthcare administrators should increase physiotherapists’ financial rewards, support continuing education, and set evidence-based practice policies. Show more

Keywords: Work, Middle East, gender, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211408

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 917-925, 2023

Authors: Bulzacchelli, Maria T. | Bellantoni, Jenna M. | McCue-Weil, Leigh | Dzugan, Jerry

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Unique hazards make commercial fishing a hazardous occupation. Effective safety measures exist, but numerous barriers hinder their adoption. Two mobile apps aim to make performing crucial safety practices easier: the Small Craft Motion Program (SCraMP), which provides vessel stability information, and FVdrills, which provides checklists for running safety drills. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to obtain feedback from commercial fishing captains who tested SCraMP or FVdrills for its usefulness during typical fishing operations. METHODS: A convenience sample of commercial fishing captains with iOS devices tested either FVdrills or SCraMP. After one month, participants …provided feedback via online questionnaire. The main outcome variables were self-reported app use and perceived usefulness of the app. RESULTS: Thirty-two participants who were asked to try FVdrills (n  = 16) or SCraMP (n  = 16) completed follow-up questionnaires. Twelve participants in the FVdrills group (75.0%) reported using the app. Of these 12, eight (66.7%) rated FVdrills “Very” or “Extremely” useful, and 11 (91.7%) agreed that FVdrills is “easy to use.” Nine participants in the SCraMP group (56.3%) reported using the app. Of these nine, only one participant (11.1%) rated SCraMP “Very” or “Extremely” useful and only two (22.2%) agreed that SCraMP is “Easy to use.” CONCLUSION: Commercial fishing captains who already own a smartphone or tablet may be willing to try a new mobile app addressing safety issues related to their work. App developers and safety professionals should conduct multiple rounds of formative evaluation, field-testing, and refinement to optimize ease of use and usefulness. Show more

Keywords: Occupational safety, mHealth, mobile technology, evaluation, field-test

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211454

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 927-937, 2023

Authors: Cajander, Niko | Reiman, A. | Tappura, Sari

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Current occupational safety and health (OSH) literature calls for sociotechnical, system-level approaches that increase understanding of the underlying reasons for insufficient OSH performance in nonstandard employment that is associated with lower labour and social security protection when compared with traditional forms of work. OBJECTIVE: This study focused on temporary agency work (TAW) which is a central form of nonstandard employment. The objective was to explore OSH issues in temporary agency work (TAW) in small and medium-sized multiemployer restaurants in Finland and discuss the issues from the perspectives of the agency worker, user company and agency. …METHODS: A directed content analysis method was used to examine the data obtained from semi-structured interviews (n  = 20) with agency workers, restaurant managers and experts representing the temporary work agencies, a pension insurer, and a labour union. The balanced work system theory was used as a framework for this qualitative analysis. RESULTS: A variety of OSH risks and hazards in TAW were identified. In addition, the complexity of OSH management was highlighted in this triangular employment relationship between the agency worker, the user company, and the agency. CONCLUSION: This study reveals problems related to OSH in TAW. Restaurants are entities separate from agencies, so establishing and adhering to a common process of OSH management is not simple. Show more

Keywords: Nonstandard employment, work conditions, work system

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220033

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 939-952, 2023

Authors: Acar, Guliz Aydemir | Acımıs, Nurhan Meydan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the neck and upper limbs are a common health problem among cosmetologists. Hairdressing requires bending, twisting, static postures, prolonged standing, repetitive motions, and vigorous movements of the hands and fingers. In order to determine the proper ergonomic measures, identifying the factors and hairdressing jobs that increase the risk of work-related neck and upper limb disorders is needed. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of MSDs in the neck and upper extremities of cosmetologists and to investigate the association with ergonomic risk factors and hairdressing work. …METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted on cosmetologists in Denizli, Turkey province (n  = 504). Data collected through a survey included questions on sociodemographic characteristics, work organization, equipment, and hairdressing work, items on work posture, the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and the Demand-Control-Support Questionnaire. Work posture in hairdressing was assessed using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). RESULTS: The prevalence of MSDs of the neck and upper limbs in the previous twelve months ranged from 7.7–55.8%. There was high, or very high, risk in 56.1% of work postures, and the median RULA score was 5.0 (4.0–6.0). The significant predictors of pain were work experience, gender, marital status, risk perception, awkward posture, psychological demand, and hair coloring. CONCLUSION: It is necessary to take control measures in hairdressing salons promptly to adopt more suitable working posture and to design workplaces ergonomically. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, pain, posture, psychosocial factors, workload

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220056

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 953-964, 2023

Authors: Vásquez-Trespalacios, Elsa María | Aranda-Beltrán, Carolina | López-Palomar, Ma. Del Refugio | Calderón-Mafud, José Luis | Román-Calderón, Juan Pablo | Vaamonde, Juan Diego | Leon-Cortes, Silvia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Healthcare workers typically perform their work under adverse conditions, increasing their susceptibility to developing burnout syndrome (BO). The paucity of research on the relationship between organizational identification (OI) and perceptions of organizational justice has created the need to address this topic more deeply. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the relationship between OI and BO, identifying whether perceptions of organizational justice act as mediating variables. METHODS: In total, 402 healthcare workers (physicians, professionals, and nursing assistants) completed Colquitt’s (2001) Organizational Justice Scale, Mael and Ashforth’s (1992) Organizational Identification Scale, and Maslach’s (1986) Burnout Inventory. Two …competing structural equation models were evaluated. RESULTS: Our partial mediation model showed that the direct relationship between OI and BO was not significant (β = –0.16; p  = 0.07). Therefore, a total mediation model was selected, showing that the indirect effects of OI on BO through perceptions of distributive justice (β = –0.16; p  = 0.00) and interpersonal justice (β = –0.11; p  = 0.02) were significant. CONCLUSION: Adjusting the processes of health institutions considering a vision of organizational justice and increasing the worker’s sense of belonging to his or her organization and his or her work team would, in turn, result in a lower probability of experiencing burnout syndrome. Show more

Keywords: Stress, emotional exhaustion, hospital employees, identity, fairness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220107

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 965-974, 2023

Authors: Tzenetidis, Nikolaos | Kourlaba, Georgia | Triantafyllou, Christos | Tzenetidis, Vasileios | Koulouvaris, Panagiotis | Myrianthefs, Pavlos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: It is well known that police officers (POs) are expected to be the first responders in emergency cases requiring First Aid (FA) such as cardiac arrest. OBJECTIVE: Description of practices and educational needs of Hellenic POs in providing FA/Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in case of medical emergencies and description of the equipment of professional FA kit. METHODS: An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017, using a self-administered questionnaire designed to serve the purposes of this particular survey. The instrument consisted of 53 questions (multiple choice and open-ended questions) administered …in a convenience sample of 700 POs of the Attica prefecture. RESULTS: A sample of 520 POs (constables and lieutenants) completed the questionnaire (response rate = 74.28%). Among the participants, 248 (47.7 %) declared that they had provided FA/CPR in the past, while among those declaring that they had never provided FA/PCR (n  = 248), 153 (61.7%) said that they had experienced FA/CPR needs, but did not know what they had to do. Moreover, only 18.1% (94/520) of the POs answered that they have FA equipment in their professional equipment, which mainly includes bandages (54/94, 57.4%), while 29.7% of POs provided answers about their educational needs (313 in total) declared that they would like to be educated in bleeding control. CONCLUSION: There is a need to educate and train Greek POs in first aid and CPR in an organized and mandatory way in order to meet emergency needs. Show more

Keywords: First aid, Hellenic police force, educational needs, equipment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220150

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 975-986, 2023

Authors: Andersen, Dorte R. | Karlsen, Iben L. | Jaspers, Sofie Ø. | Pedersen, Anna Helene M. | Andersen, Lars Peter S. | Aust, Birgit

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Exposure to workplace violence is associated with physical and/or psychological trauma. Despite its significant impact, little is known about front-line workers’ experiences of preventing workplace violence. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify what workers identify as important to preventing workplace conflicts from escalating into violence. METHODS: We conducted seventeen qualitative focus-group interviews with fifty-eight workers at the Danish Prison and Probation Service and psychiatric hospitals. We applied thematic analysis to identify types of violence-prevention practices, and prerequisites for successfully preventing workplace violence. RESULTS: We identified two main categories of violence-prevention practices, and one …main category of prerequisites for violence-prevention practices. Main category A), “the individual worker’s violence-prevention practices” included the sub-categories, 1) identify the causes of workplace violence and potentially violent situations, 2) establish relationships, state rules, and set clear boundaries and 3) display empathy and communicate respectfully. Main category B), “collaborative practices for preventing workplace violence” included 4) communicate with co-workers, and share information and observations, 5) coordinate work, avoid being played off against colleagues, and support colleagues. Main category C), “prerequisites for violence-prevention practices” included 6) managing one’s emotions, and 7) having sufficient time to do the job, and being a part of a stable team, whose members know each other and the inmates/patients”. CONCLUSION: This study contributes to a better understanding of the interplay among individual, collaborative, and contextual aspects of preventing workplace violence. We believe that an increased understanding of the complexity of preventing workplace violence in high-risk sectors is useful when designing comprehensive violence-prevention strategies. Show more

Keywords: Work environment, violence prevention, prisons, psychiatric units, workplace interventions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220151

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 987-999, 2023

Authors: Lombardo, Clara | Mento, Carmela | De Stefano, Rosa | Infortuna, Carmenrita | Iannuzzo, Fiammetta | Materia, Nicoletta | Muscatello, Maria Rosaria Anna | Bruno, Antonio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Job satisfaction, as a multidimensional psychological response to work experience, includes both cognitive and affective components which influence individuals’ appraisals and state of minds. In recent years, researchers have begun to explore the psychological processes that might underlie the dispositional causes of job satisfaction. Affective temperaments can influence the experience of emotionally significant events at work and this, in turn, may influence job satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: To investigate possible associations between affective temperamental features and job satisfaction in the health professions. METHODS: The sample consisted of 294 subjects selected among health professionals. Data were collected by …an online survey including the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) questionnaire and the short form of the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego (TEMPS-A) questionnaire. RESULTS: Hyperthymic, depressive, irritable and anxious temperaments predicted the risk of experiencing job dissatisfaction in healthcare professionals. No associations between cyclothymic temperament and job satisfaction were found. CONCLUSION: The identification of affective temperamental assets and liabilities is potentially useful in the development of supportive and psycho-educational strategies, aimed at preventing work-related stress and promoting mental health in workplaces, also reducing the risk of job dissatisfaction. Show more

Keywords: Affective temperaments, job satisfaction, health professional, professional quality of life

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220164

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1001-1007, 2023

Authors: Tilley, Paul M. | Mulla, Daanish M. | Keir, Peter J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Effective targeting of workplace upper extremity musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) prevention strategies requires the identification of demographic groups most at risk. Workers’ compensation data provides an effective means of surveillance of MSDs at the population level. OBJECTIVE: The primary purpose of this study was to identify the effects of age and sex on rates of tendon injuries of the wrist and hand, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), epicondylitis, and soft tissue shoulder injuries in Ontario, Canada between 2000–2019 using workers’ compensation data from the Association of Workers Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC). METHODS: Age and sex specific …rates of lost-time injury claims from the four identified injury categories as well as “non-specific” upper extremity MSDs which did not fit into the four categories were calculated by standardizing injury claim totals with “at-risk” population estimates from the Canada Labour Force Survey. A multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the effects of age and sex on rates of specific injury claims. RESULTS: Statistically significant age and sex effects were identified for rates of claims from tendon injuries of the wrist and hand, CTS, and shoulder injuries, while only age effects were significant for epicondylitis. Between 2000–2019, rates of claims from the four injury categories studied and the magnitude of the age and sex effects declined substantially over time. CONCLUSION: Detailed surveillance of workplace ergonomic hazards in Ontario workplaces is needed to determine what is causing rates of upper extremity claims to decline. Show more

Keywords: Occupational injuries, epidemiology, Canada, musculoskeletal diseases, carpal tunnel syndrome

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220175

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1009-1020, 2023

Authors: Jacquier-Bret, Julien | Gorce, Philippe | Rouvière, Emilie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among physiotherapists. They perform many repetitive tasks in awkward postures that require a high muscle load. This issue was often addressed through subjective analysis (questionnaire) but rarely using postural evaluation combined with an ergonomic assessment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article was to decompose draining lymphatic massage performed by physiotherapists in generic postures (GP) to quickly assess the musculoskeletal disorder risk. METHODS: Based on numeric video recorded in frontal and sagittal planes, 3360 postures were defined from 20-minutes lymphatic drainage massage performed by 7 physiotherapists over a period of 6 months. …A hierarchical cluster analysis was applied to define the GP. RESULTS: Seven GP were identified, which were described by their average joint angles, variability and relative frequency. GP6, GP4 and GP2 had the highest frequencies (17.6%, 16.9% and 16.8% respectively). Trunk and neck were essentially flexed (neck: 17.0±10.0° for GP1; trunk: 20.4±8.7° for GP4). Shoulder flexion and abduction ranged from 15° (GP7) to 60° (GP4). Mean and variability of RULA score completed the analysis. The highest scores were computed for GP2 and GP3 (respectively 5.5±1.3 and 5.8±1.2, p  < 0.05). GP4 had the lowest (4.0±1.1, p  < 0.05). The results suggest that massages have to be monitored. Attention should be paid to the postures used to prevent the occurrence of MSDs. CONCLUSION: The massages could be described as a combination of generic posture for a rapid ergonomic assessment. Show more

Keywords: Physiotherapist, posture, massage, musculoskeletal disorders, RULA

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220192

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1021-1029, 2023

Authors: Talbott, Jennifer M.V. | Ghaith, Summer | Reed, Darcy A. | Sadosty, Annie T. | Sandefur, Benjamin J. | Hayes, Sharonne N. | Halyard, Michele Y. | Mi, Lanyu | Lim, Elisabeth S. | Lindor, Rachel A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Promotions in academic medicine are frequently based on number of publications and leadership positions held. While prior study has established women publish less than men, many evaluations are limited to individual specialties and do not evaluate involvement with educational activities. OBJECTIVE: To compare gender differences in academic output, intramural leadership positions, and educational leadership positions of academic physicians. METHODS: The curriculum vitae and de-identified demographic data of all permanent physicians employed at a multi-site academic medical center were reviewed from April to May 2020. Multivariable logistic and Poisson regressions evaluated leadership positions and number of …publications. RESULTS: Of 3,359 physicians in the demographic database, 32.3% (n  = 1,087) were women and 72.5% were white (n  = 2,510). Of the 3,015 physicians in the curriculum vitae database, 32% (n  = 962) were women. Women were more likely (p  < 0.001) to be assistant professor (54% vs. 42.7%) and less likely to be associate (18.1% vs. 20.3%) or full professor (14.6% vs. 29.1%). Women assistant professors published 22% fewer articles (ratio estimate = 0.78, p  < 0.001), associate professors 18% less (coefficient = 0.82, p  < 0.001), and full professors 23% less (coefficient = 0.77, p  < 0.001). Fewer women were program directors for residencies (1.6% vs. 2.9%, p  = 0.02) or fellowships (5.4% vs. 7.4%, p  = 0.04), and held fewer division or department leadership positions (OR 0.8, 95% CI as [0.6, 1.0], p  = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Women physicians do not outperform men across any education, leadership, or publication category. A cultural shift is needed to redefine traditional metrics for leadership appointments if academic medicine hopes to achieve equity. Show more

Keywords: Gender equity, sexism, women, publications, medicine

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220193

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1031-1039, 2023

Authors: Paulo, Anderson Caetano | Caldeira Júnior, Cleonir | Grani, Gabriel | Farah, Leonardo | Jesus da Cruz, Abimael | Xavier de Souza Araújo, Weslley | de Lourdes Nahhas Rodacki, Cintia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mountain hiking is an unpredictable activity for firefighters during the search, rescue, and firefighting. Could the quality of the uniform worn by firefighters affect psychophysiological variables? OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to monitor the responses of perceived exertion (RPE), musculoskeletal pain (MP), and heart rate variability (HRV) responses in firefighters using different uniforms on a 5 km mountain walking activity. The feeling of comfort, safety, and ergonomic adjustment of the two types of uniforms also was verified. METHODS: Sixteen firefighters were divided into two groups: 4thRUPM”B2” (33% polyester and 67% cotton) vs. GOLD (50% …polyamide and 50% cotton). The GOLD group wore a prototype that had not yet been operationally tested. RESULTS: The independent t -test showed that the groups had similar results in RPE at post-march (Omni-Walk/Run = 3.5±0.9 vs. 2.9±0.6 AU). ANOVA Two-way (2x group and 2x time) was used to verify differences in body mass (BM), MP, and HRV. There was a main effect of time (pre- vs. post-march; p  < 0.05) for BM, MP, heart rate (HR), mean RR, RMSSD, pNN50, and HF, regardless of group (4thRUPM”B2” vs. GOLD). Rainwater increased post-march BM (92.2±9.8 kg vs. 93.5±9.9 kg). MP (28.9±2.9 vs. 33.2±7.7 AU), HR (71.6±14.2 vs. 99.0±26.3 bpm), RMSSD (74.8±53.7 vs. 126.5±74.4 ms) and HF (48.5±20.2 vs. 60.0±16.7 nu) also increased post-march. The mean RR (875.2±153.3 vs. 673.9±155.3 ms) and pNN50 (33.1±18.6 vs. 46.3±23.9%) reduced post-march. There was a subjective preference for GOLD. CONCLUSION: Different uniforms do not compromise psychophysiological variables during the mountain hike but differentiate ergonomic subjectivity. Show more

Keywords: Heart rate variability, load carriage, musculoskeletal pain, tactical personnel, wearability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220201

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1041-1050, 2023

Authors: Kettschau, Jan P. | Claassen, Kevin | dos Anjos, Dominique Rodil | Wrede, Sammy J.S. | Broding, Horst C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic acts as a recent driver for telework on a global scale. While visual display unit (VDU) workplaces are usually subject to regulatory requirements or occupational health and safety controls, mobile workplaces may increase the risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the influence of work from home (WFH) on musculoskeletal complaints in the context of German municipal administrations. METHODS: This paper is based on an online survey conducted as part of the Health and Digital Change project in cooperation with three municipal administrations …in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. A multivariate model was constructed to calculate the odds ratio for MSCs including various control variables. RESULTS: While bivariate analysis showed a 0.96-fold risk for employees who work from home, the multivariate model with a split between occasional (OR = 0.79) and frequent (OR = 1.59) WFH revealed a more complex effect. Both odds did not reach the significance level. However, the influence of being female (OR = 3.34) and being overweight (OR = 1.51) was confirmed. Regarding age the OR increases by 1.02 per year of life. Other control variables were the municipal affiliation, university entrance qualification, working hours and feeling overstrained. The regression model improved by 0.07 (McFadden R 2 ) compared to the null model. CONCLUSION: Although WFH is discussed as a rising risk factor for MSCs, the findings in this study indicate, that occasional WFH acts as a rather protective factor against work-related MSCs. Show more

Keywords: Occupational medicine, COVID-19, teleworking, musculoskeletal pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220228

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1051-1057, 2023

Authors: Mohammadfam, Iraj | Khajevandi, Ali Asghar | Dehghani, Hesam | Babamiri, Mohammad | Farhadian, Maryam | Rezaei, Reza

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mines are often home to many dangers with a high rate of accidents and occupational diseases. One of the most effective ways to prevent these adverse incidents is to identify and control the influential factors causing human error in design and the ensuing negative consequences. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore, categorize and prioritize factors affecting human errors in the mine design process. METHODS: The study has a mixed-method design combining qualitative and quantitative data. In the qualitative phase, the required data were collected by conducting semi-structured interviews with 12 surface mine designers. The causes …of errors were extracted and categorized by the latent content analysis using MAXQDA2022 software. The identified causes in the qualitative phase were sent to expert designers in Q tables, and the data were analyzed by factor analysis. RESULTS: Of the identified codes in the qualitative phase, 40 main themes in five different categories (individual, organizational, external, task, and environmental factors) were determined as causes. The results of the quantitative phase suggest the existence of four different mental patterns regarding the causes of design errors (DEs). The data analysis also shows that organizational and personal factors, particularly supervision and inspection, experience, and technical knowledge, were the strongest causes of DEs and environmental (hotness, coldness, indoor air quality, and noise) and external (work-family conflict) factors being the weakest ones. CONCLUSION: This study not only identifies and categorizes the causes of design errors in the mining industry but also suggests some control strategies for these errors based on the mental patterns of the experts. Show more

Keywords: Accidents, design error, qualitative study, Q-methodology, mines

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220291

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1059-1069, 2023

Authors: Rezvanizadeh, Majid | Mohammad-Ghasemi, Mostafa | Soltanzadeh, Ahmad | Sadeghi-Yarandi, Mohsen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Currently, proper assessment of the existing ergonomic hazards, focusing on improving the health of individuals, is of great importance. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to develop a new model for ergonomic index assessment in the workplace, focusing on physical, cognitive, and environmental components. METHODS: To determine the parameters to be measured for each group of occupations, the most critical indicators in each ergonomic dimension were identified using a review of scientific texts and obtaining expert opinions. The opinions of 30 experts were studied in three stages Delphi study. Cronbach’s alpha was used to calculate model reliability …in SPSS version 25. An analytical hierarchy process was used to determine the weight values of each component and parameter. The weights were calculated in Expert Choice version 11. RESULTS: The mean CVI and CVR values were 0.92 and 0.80, respectively. Cronbach’s alpha values for each of the physical, environmental, and cognitive components and the entire model were 0.91, 0.87, 0.85, and 0.89, respectively. Physical components and parameters of physical condition during work, mental workload, lighting, and thermal stress in the workplace were among the most important parameters in the three groups of office, operational, and services jobs. CONCLUSION: The model can be a practical step toward properly evaluating the ergonomic components and planning to implement control measures to reduce physical, cognitive, and environmental risk factors. Considering the study of different variables in occupational ergonomic risk assessment, this model can be a helpful tool in ergonomic management systems used in different occupational environments. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomic evaluation model, physical component, cognitive component, environmental component, analytical hierarchy process, Delphi study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220335

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1071-1086, 2023

Authors: Jesus, Tiago S. | Kamalakannan, Sureshkumar | Bhattacharjya, Sutanuka | Bettger, Janet Prvu | Jacobs, Karen | Hoenig, Helen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Telehealth approaches are promising for the delivery of rehabilitation services but may be under-used or under-implemented. OBJECTIVE: To report a review protocol to identify how much telerehabilitation (telehealth approaches to the delivery of rehabilitation services) have been used and implemented, and which factors have affected such implementation. METHODS: A mixed-methods systematic review with a framework synthesis. Six databases for the scientific literature will be searched, complemented by snowballing searches and additional references coming from key informants (i.e., rehabilitation researchers from a networking group in health services research). We will include English-language empirical research examining the …routine use or implementation of telehealth technologies in physical rehabilitation services or by physical rehabilitation professionals from a range of study designs, excepting case studies, case reports, and qualitative studies with n  < 5. Two independent reviewers will perform the screenings, quality appraisals (using the Joanna Briggs Institutes’ appraisal checklists), and the data extractions. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research will be used to synthesize the data on the enablers and barriers of the implementation of telerehabilitation approaches. All the authors will be involved at this synthesis, and key informants will provide feedback. CONCLUSION: The results can inform further implementation endeavours. Show more

Keywords: Telehealth, rehabilitation, uptake

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210745

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 3, pp. 1087-1097, 2023