Work - Volume 75, issue 3

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