Work - Volume 75, issue 4

Authors: Soltanzadeh, Ahmad | Mohammadfam, Iraj | Mahdinia, Mohsen | Sadeghi-Yarandi, Mohsen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The data mining of construction accidents based on a robust modeling process can be used as a practical technique for reducing the frequency of construction accidents. OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to data-mine construction accidents. METHODS: This study was conducted in 2020 on construction accidents in Iran for ten years (2009–2018). The instruments to collect the required data were the checklists and descriptive reports of the accidents. The dependent variables of the study included reactive safety indicators related to construction accidents (lost working days (LWD) and total accident costs (TAC)). The independent variables consisted of …four latent factors: personal variables, organizational variables, unsafe working conditions, and unsafe acts. The data were collected based on the conceptual model designed for data mining. The data mining process was carried out based on the structural equation modeling by IBM AMOS V. 23.0. RESULTS: A total of 5742 construction accidents occurring in 10 years were analyzed. The means of TAC and LWD indicators were estimated to be 248.20±52.60 days and 1893.10±152.22 $. These two indicators directly correlated with the two latent factors of unsafe conditions and unsafe acts and their related variables and were indirectly influenced by latent personal and organizational factors. The relationship between unsafe conditions and unsafe acts was significantly positive. The relationship between latent personal and organizational factors and the two construction accident indicators was significantly negative (p <0.05). CONCLUSION: The model results showed that personal and organizational variables could, directly and indirectly, affect reactive safety indicators in construction projects. Thus, these findings can be used to design and improve safety strategies to prevent and decrease construction accidents and incidents. Show more

Keywords: Safety, reactive safety indicators, lost working days, construction accidents

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220128

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1341-1350, 2023

Authors: Larson, Robert E. | Johnson, A. Wayne | Bruening, Dustin A. | Ridge, Sarah T. | Mitchell, Ulrike H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Repositioning patients is a frequent task for healthcare workers causing substantial stress to the low back. Patient handling methodologies that reduce low back load should be used. Some studies have observed the effect of bed height on back forces using a limited range of heights. This study details a wider range. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to discover an optimal bed height for reducing low back force when boosting a patient. METHODS: 11 university students and local residents participated by completing a series of boosts with a 91.6 kg research assistant acting as dependent. …The bed was adjusted 3% of participant height and 3 boosts were completed at each height which resulted in 8–10 different bed heights depending on the height of the participant. Motion and force data were collected to estimate low back forces via 3DSSPP. Pearson’s R was performed to observe the correlation between caregiver height and low back forces. RESULTS: There were significant negative correlations between bed height and low back compression force at L4-L5 (r  = –0.676, p  = <0.001) and L5-S1 (r  = –0.704, p  = <0.001). There were no significant correlations with any shear forces. CONCLUSION: The highest bed height led to decreased low back compression forces regardless of participant height, but there was not a significant difference in shear forces. Thus, healthcare workers may experience less low back stress with the bed at a higher height. There may be a force tradeoff between the low back and other parts of the body that needs further exploration. Healthcare workers need to be made aware of the implications of adjusting the environment when performing patient handling tasks. Show more

Keywords: Posture, caregivers, moving and lifting patients, ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220260

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1351-1359, 2023

Authors: Ladegaard, Yun | Skakon, Janne | Dalgaard, Vita Ligaya | Ståhl, Christian | Slot Thomsen, Søren Therkil | Netterstrøm, Bo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Europe it is commonly accepted that psychosocial hazards may influence the mental health of employees. However, mental disorders such as depression are generally not acknowledged as an occupational disease covered by the workers compensation system. Studies indicate that workers compensation claim processes may affect employee’s health negatively due to a demanding case process. If filing a workers’ compensation claim can harm the employees’ health, it is highly relevant to pay attention to employees with mental health claims, as they are most likely vulnerable and face a very low chance of compensation. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates how …employees with work-related mental disorders experience the process of seeking workers compensation from the Danish Workers’ Compensation System. METHOD: Interview (N = 13) and questionnaire (N = 436) data from claimants were analysed. RESULTS: Analysis showed that even though many employees wished for the claim to influence the conditions at the workplace, there seemed to be a lack of preventive health and safety initiatives in the workplaces. Central stakeholders such as health and safety representatives were often not involved. Management involvement was often experienced negatively, and the Danish Working Environment Authority rarely conducted workplace inspections. Employees experienced inadequate information about the workers’ compensation process and experienced a lack of coordination between stakeholders. CONCLUSION: A more supportive and coordinated approach in the Workers’ Compensation System is recommendable. The processes in the system could be evaluated using the Social Insurance Literacy concept, to ensure sufficient support of the claimants and reduce potential harmful aspects of the process. Show more

Keywords: Mental health claims, prevention, psychosocial work environment, inspections insurance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211315

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1361-1377, 2023

Authors: Kheir, Samah | Lipskaya-Velkovsky, Lena

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Arab population of East Jerusalem with serious mental illness (SMI) is an ethnic and health status minority that has unique employment issues. Vocational rehabilitation offered to this population is guided by standard regulations that are grounded in knowledge obtained from Western communities on the employment enablers, while negligible research was done to investigate relevance of these enablers for the Arab population. OBJECTIVE: The study aims to examine the previously well-established association between motor, cognitive, and emotional personal factors, occupation features, environmental characteristics, and vocational outcomes of job satisfaction and performance among the Arab population of East …Jerusalem with SMI. METHODS: Twenty-three men and women, aged 23–58, from this minority group who had received vocational rehabilitation participated in this cross-sectional study. They completed standard assessments of motor and cognitive skills, self-efficacy, work-environment suitability, and job satisfaction. Employers then rated their level of functioning at work. RESULTS: No correlation was found between the outcome measurements and most of the personal factors and environmental characteristics (p  > 0.05), except for an association between job satisfaction, work self-efficacy, and work control. No expected differences were found between vocational rehabilitation programs in the variables of interest (p  > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The disparity from well-established patterns of association between enablers and employment outcomes reveals unique characteristics of the investigated population and suggests the impact cultural issues has on vocational rehabilitation. The findings raise an urgent call for an in-depth investigation of the complex phenomenon of employment in this population to support sustainable employment benefits and recovery journey. Show more

Keywords: Supported employment, sustainable employment, motor functioning, cognition, self-efficacy, environment, satisfaction with job

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220266

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1379-1392, 2023

Authors: Smith, Todd D. | Yu, Zuojin | Balogun, Abdulrazak O.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and associated musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) are problematic in stone, sand, and gravel mining. Research is needed to explore relationships between job demands, work-related hazards and MSS. OBJECTIVE: An exploratory study was conducted in Indiana during 2019–2020 to examine associations between job demands, work-related hazards and MSS. METHODS: Through convenience sampling, cross-sectional survey data from 459 workers were collected and analyzed using logistic multiple and binary logistic regression methods. Outcome variables were MSS to the low back, neck/shoulder, and wrist/hand. Predictor variables and MSS measures are based on the Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. …RESULTS: Increased odds of low back MSS were related to dynamic loads (OR = 2.14), pushing/pulling heavy loads (OR = 1.56), torso bending or twisting (OR = 2.36), bent, stooped, or twisted posture (OR = 2.04), uncomfortable postures (OR = 2.07), repetition (OR = 1.67) and vibrating tools (OR = 1.81). Increased odds of neck/shoulder MSS were related to dynamic loads (OR = 1.83), static loads (OR = 1.24), heavy lifting (OR = 1.50), pushing/pulling heavy loads (OR = 1.68), bending or twisting of the neck (OR = 1.82), twisted neck posture (OR = 1.77) and uncomfortable postures (OR = 1.81). Increased odds of wrist/hand MSS were related to dynamic loads (OR = 2.06), static loads (OR = 1.45), bending or twisting of the wrists/hands (OR = 10.52), extended reaching (OR = 3.05), repetition (OR = 5.25), awkward postures (OR = 4.47), working above shoulder level (OR = 2.47), and vibrating tools (OR = 1.78). CONCLUSION: Hazards that increased the likelihood of MSS were identified. These hazards should be abated or controlled to prevent MSDs in stone, sand, and gravel mining. More applied research, including ergonomic assessments to further identify hazards that can be controlled or abated, is warranted. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorder, job demands, mining, musculoskeletal symptoms

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220188

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1393-1402, 2023

Authors: Yaghoubitajani, Zohreh | Gheitasi, Mehdi | Bayattork, Mohammad | Andersen, Lars Louis

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While positive short-term effects from corrective exercise on neck-shoulder pain (NSP) are evident, maintenance effects after cessation of the exercise remain unknown. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to assess the lasting effects of corrective exercise in NSP and workability after a year of detraining. METHODS: A cohort study with 1-year follow-up was carried out in two previous training groups (n  = 24) using a self-reported paper-based questionnaire, which was completed three times (baseline, 8-week exercise, and 1-year detraining). The subjects (mean±SD age: 39.0±6.4, 38.1±8.0) responded to the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for NSP …as the primary outcome. A single validated item from the Workability Index determined workability as the secondary outcome. Between and within-group differences of the two groups were investigated using non-parametric tests, including 12 subjects in each group. RESULTS: The results indicated that 8-week exercise improvements in NSP and mental and physical workability were largely maintained after one year of detraining. The lasting effects of NSP and physical and mental workability were statistically identified in 8-week and 1-year follow-ups. Nevertheless, it is noticeably warranted to adhere to the exercise program. CONCLUSION: The current study indicates that a brief 8-week exercise period once per year is sufficient to reduce pain and improve workability among workers. This knowledge can make exercise interventions more feasible and cost-effective for companies aiming to improve employee health. Show more

Keywords: Work-related musculoskeletal pain, maintenance, detraining, exercise effects, sedentary lifestyle

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220493

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1403-1411, 2023

Authors: Dandumahanti, Bhanu Priya | Subramaniyam, Murali

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Smartphones cause physiological problems due to inappropriate postures and extensive usage. India, being the second leading country with the highest number of smartphone users (492 million in 2021), has witnessed a significant rise in smartphone-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). OBJECTIVE: This study compared the effects of 60-min smartphone gameplay on head flexion angle, muscle activity, and loads at C7 on Indian adolescents. METHODS: A subjective assessment was conducted on 1659 participants, of which, 40 young male adults aged between 20–28 years performed the experimental trial. Muscle (Sternocleidomastoid) activity, head flexion angle, and load acting at the …neck (C7) were analyzed through postural assessment, pre-and post-subjective analysis. RESULTS: Participants maintained an average of 28.46°±4.04° head flexion angle for more than 43 min (71%) in an hour while performing the task. The muscle activity increased to 23% (p  < 0.001) of MVC at the end of the task compared to the beginning. CONCLUSION: The results indicated a significant increase in muscle activity (1.61 times), spinal loads (4.6 times) and subjective discomfort (2.9 times) after prolonged smartphone usage. It is evident that various aspects (duration, posture, content) play a vital role in smartphone-related MSD and there is a potential risk of cervical spine problems. The increased loads reduce muscle stiffness and increase intervertebral disc pressure. Show more

Keywords: Electromyogram, flexed head posture, musculoskeletal disorders, neck discomfort, smartphone

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220422

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1413-1425, 2023

Authors: Ibikunle, Peter O. | Rhoda, Anthea | Smith, Mario R. | Useh, Ushotanefe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Return-to-Work Assessment Scale (RAS) was developed in 2021 by Ibikunle et al. to assess return-to-work among post-stroke survivors. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe how the conceptual (flag model and ICF) and theoretical framework (C-OAR-SE) were used in developing the RAS. METHOD: The development of the RAS consisted of three phases: (i) Initial item generation (ii) Face and content validity (iii) Psychometric testing. With each phase embracing the flag model, international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF) and the C-OAR-SE an acronym for the six aspects of the theory: ‘C’ …[construct definition], ‘OAR’ [object representation, attribute classification, and rater entity identification], and ‘SE’ [selection of item type and answer scale, as well as, enumeration]. RESULTS: A triangulated approach drawn on three separate theories and models. Phase one was developed by using the flag model which provided the semi-structured open ended questions that materialized into the draft instrument while phases two and three were developed using the ICF and the C-OAR-SE. The scale consists of two sections, A and B. Section A comprises general information about post-stroke survivors, which would not be scored, while section B includes three parts that are important to consider when deciding to return-to-work. CONCLUSION: An instrument called RAS was developed, an excellent, internally consistent, as well as reliable tool that has demonstrated good group and structural validity. Show more

Keywords: Disability, psychology, physiotherapy, community rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220120

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1427-1437, 2023

Authors: Khanehshenas, Farin | Mazloumi, Adel | Dabiri, Roya | Adinevand, Somaye Noorali

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fatigue, as a persistent and serious occupational hazard, plays an important role in traffic accidents by reducing the driver’s ability to maneuver with the vehicle and increasing the likelihood of falling asleep at the wheel. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to identify the individual contextual factors, sleep condition, lifestyle, job characteristics, environmental, and economic conditions that affect the fatigue and alertness of Iranian suburban bus drivers. METHODS: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was used for this study. Non-probability sampling was used to study 401 suburban bus drivers from Tehran province, Iran, ranging in age …from 24 to 67 years. The SPSS22 statistical software V27 was used for the analysis. RESULTS: Approximately half of the participants (50.5%) had experienced fatigue while driving in the previous six months. According to a logistic regression analysis, the contextual factors were all independently related to falling asleep and fatigue while driving. CONCLUSION: This study provides a thorough understanding of the contextual factors related to drowsy driving and emphasizes the importance of taking these things into consideration when developing interventions aimed at improving the driver’s wellbeing and health and lowering the risk of errors and accidents. Show more

Keywords: Sleepiness, occupational health, safety, risk factors, traffic

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220272

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1439-1454, 2023

Authors: Niu, Jianwei | An, Yueqi | Xu, Mengwen | Zhang, Le | Liu, Jing | Feng, Xiaolin | Li, Lei | Song, Xin | Niu, Weifang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The physical factors associated with musculoskeletal pain in nursing personnel have been largely investigated, although the role of sleep and psychological factors resulting in musculoskeletal pain has not been addressed thoroughly. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and investigate how sleep and psychological factors influence musculoskeletal pain in a nursing group. METHODS: Nordic standard questionnaires were distributed to 230 female nurses. Chi-square tests were performed to assess the associations between sleep problems, psychological problems, and musculoskeletal pain symptoms. Binary logistic regression analysis was also conducted to identify the primary factors …influencing the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain. RESULTS: The highest prevalence of pain was observed in the lower back, neck, and shoulders, whereas the lowest prevalence of pain was observed in the ankles, feet, elbows, and hips/buttocks. Chi-square analysis and binary logistic regression showed that sleep duration, sleep onset time, and sleep quality all significantly contributed to the development of neck and upper back pain. With regard to the psychological factors, only occupational pride and stress had a significant effect on pain; in contrast, family support did not show any significant influence. CONCLUSION: Compared with other body regions, musculoskeletal pain in the lower back, neck, and shoulders requires more attention and preventive interventions. Special efforts should be made to shift the workday system of the nursing group because of the strong correlation between sleep problems and pain. Incentives other than penalty mechanisms should be considered seriously in nursing to boost occupational pride and relieve job stress. Show more

Keywords: Nursing, musculoskeletal pain, Nordic standard questionnaires, binary logistic regression analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211113

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1455-1465, 2023

Authors: Wu, Lei | Li, Jian | Wang, Zhenglun | Wang, Zhongren | Liu, Tao | Sun, Jingzhi | Ling, Ruijie | He, Lihua | Wang, Sheng | Yang, Lei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Parachutists are generally recognized as a “high-risk” group among military personnel. However, the findings came mostly from data analysis without soldiers as subjects. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the injury prevalence in Chinese paratroopers on-site and determine the relationship between injury and risk factors encountered during parachuting and land-based training. METHODS: This study consisted of a field study with questionnaire and an experiment on muscle load during the simulated training exercise of platform jumping with surface electromyography (EMG), in which 7230 paratroopers and 38 soldiers were involved respectively. Chi-square test was used for the …injury rate analysis, ANOVA and t -test for comparison of EMG data, and logistic regression for the analysis of multiple factors. Taking both intensity and time into consideration, jump-years (J-yrs) was used as a complex indicator for exposure to parachuting. Either injury per 1000 jumps or injured persons per 100 soldiers were calculated as injury prevalence. RESULTS: The overall injury rate among Chinese parachutists was found to be 13.9 injuries per 1000 parachute jumps and 24.5% based on personnel. The person-based injury rate increased with the exposure level significantly (χ 2  = 142.06, 2-sided, P  < 0.05; trend test also significantly). Among the identified risk factors the uneven terrain was ranked as the most important one by logistic analysis. The EMG amplitude in MVE% increased with the platform height of all the 8 measured muscles and even reached 100% in 4 muscles, showing a high impact at landing. In addition, some characteristics of parachuting injury were also revealed by the injury type and site analysis. CONCLUSION: A dose-response relationship between parachuting and injury was observed significantly in the survey of Chinese paratroopers. Their injury rate was found to be relatively higher than the reported internationally. Landing impact as a critical point for injury seemed to be proved by the investigation and also the experiment with EMG measurement. It is suggested for future studies, to use the person-based injury rate, landing studied in work physiology and with consideration of different landing skills. Show more

Keywords: Epidemiological study, wound, dose response relationship, electromyography, landing impact

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220079

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 4, pp. 1467-1476, 2023