Work - Volume 76, issue 1

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-236008

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 1-2, 2023

Authors: Jain, Vedushi M. | Parihar, Soumya Raj Singh | Acharya, Shruthi | Acharya, Shashidhar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The risk of exposure to COVID-19 infection through droplets/aerosol in dental clinics has renewed focus on the utility and possible adverse effects of using personal protective equipment (PPE) on dentists. OBJECTIVE: To obtain information from a cross-section of dentists regarding their PPE usage and to evaluate the possible risk factors that can influence their work efficiency. METHODS: A 31-item cross-sectional survey with a structured multiple-choice questionnaire was designed. Social media and emails were used to circulate the questionnaire among dental professionals worldwide. A total of 317 respondents returned the completed forms. RESULTS: A …total of 184 (55%) participants reported getting soaking wet while wearing PPE at the end of the working hours (approximately eight hours of working). Many respondents (n  = 286, 90%) reported that the use of PPE resulted in reduced visibility of the operating field. The majority of respondents (84%) felt that their overall work efficiency had reduced after using PPE. Binary logistic regression had shown that two significant factors that were associated with reduced work efficiency included, pre-existing systemic illness and getting soaking wet from wearing a PPE. CONCLUSION: Definite protocols should be introduced that mandate the doffing of PPE for every patient, in a separate well-ventilated area where the skin can recuperate from the heat and pressure points caused by the PPE. Dentists should take greater care in choosing the appropriate PPE to prevent exacerbation of pre-existing illnesses, which may reduce their work efficiency. Show more

Keywords: Aerosols, healthcare workers, questionnaire, dental clinic, SARS-Cov-2

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220083

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 3-10, 2023

Authors: Cousins, Daniel J.E. | Schaefer, Bailey H. | Holmes, Michael W.R. | Beaudette, Shawn M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: COVID-19 caused a transition to work-from-home conditions, closures of recreation facilities and cancelation of social events. OBJECTIVE: This study sought to characterize and quantify the impact COVID-19 related shutdowns had on perceptions of health and wellbeing, musculoskeletal discomfort, and physical characteristics of workstation set-up in full time workers who transitioned to working from home. METHODS: 297 participants from 8 countries completed a retrospective pre/post survey design that assessed outcomes prior to COVID-19 shutdowns and when each participant was experiencing peak pandemic-related restrictions. There were 3 categories including, health and wellbeing, musculoskeletal discomfort, and workplace ergonomics. …RESULTS: General discomfort on a scale from 1 to 100 increased from 31.4 pre to 39.9 during COVID-19. Notable areas increasing in severity of discomfort from pre to during included the neck (41.8 to 47.7), upper back (36.3 to 41.3) and right wrist (38.7 to 43.5). The percentage of the population experiencing discomfort increased from pre to during in the low back (41.5% to 55.2%), upper back (28.7% to 40.9%), neck (45.5% to 60.9%) and right wrist (16.1% to 23.7%). CONCLUSION: There were three distinct groups for physical activity one group including, one maintaining and one that decreased, which did not have an impact on perceived general discomfort. There was a significant decrease in usage of a desk and adjustable chair and an increase in laptop use. Working from home in some capacity will likely be a more common occurrence which will require further ergonomic assessments and considerations to keep a healthy workforce. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, work from home, office design, well-being, physical activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220388

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 11-20, 2023

Authors: Malshani, Wishmila | Weerakoon, Harshi | Weerakoon, Kosala

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Practicing incorrect postures in online and virtual education during the COVID-19 pandemic can cause significant study-related musculoskeletal problems among students. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice of sitting posture and computer ergonomics and study-related musculoskeletal problems in undergraduates who followed online education during the pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey among a cohort of Sri Lankan medical undergraduates was conducted using a structured questionnaire with 56 multiple-choice or Yes/No type questions. RESULTS: Of the 410 participants, over 85% (n  = 362) knew the correct posture to sit on the chair type …that they frequently used for studies. However, the majority (n  = 378,92.20%) practised incorrect sitting postures in which leaning forward (n  = 319,77.80%) was the most common suboptimal posture. Knowledge (n  = 161,40%) and practice (n  = 167,40.73%) on taking frequent breaks were poor among the majority. Their knowledge on computer ergonomics was good (>80%, n  = 304) except for the recommended eye-to-screen distance (n  = 129,31.46%). Importantly, ∼50% (n  = 206) did not practise the recommended eye-to-screen distance. Use of non-adjustable chairs with no armrests (n  = 346,84.39%) and smartphones (n  = 354,86.34%) were identified as the main factors which hindered correct practices. Study-related pain/discomfort reported by the majority (n  = 241,58.78%) is potentially due to suboptimal ergonomics. Their attitude toward learning and practicing correct ergonomics in home workstations was good (n  = 383,93.41%). CONCLUSION: Poor practice of posture and computer ergonomics, despite the good knowledge and attitude is possibly due to the suboptimal work environments. Introducing simple practical measures to facilitate ergonomically appropriate work environments is mandatory in virtual education to prevent study-related musculoskeletal problems. Show more

Keywords: Computer ergonomics, knowledge, attitude, and practice, sitting posture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220397

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 21-31, 2023

Authors: Ramana, Ashvinkumar B. | Singh, Sweta | Rupani, Mihir P. | Mukherjee, Ritika | Mohapatra, Archisman

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: During the unexpected lockdown implemented in early 2020 in reaction to the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a considerable section of India’s population of migrant construction-site workers were stuck. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to explore the lived experiences and consequent perceptions of migrant workers related to the COVID-19 lockdown and the consequences on their lives. METHODS: We conducted structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) with twelve migrant construction-site workers in Bhavnagar, Western India, from November to December 2020, using qualitative research methods. All IDIs were conducted with participant’s consent, audio-recorded, transcribed in English, inductively coded, and thematically analyzed. …RESULTS: The primary financial challenges mentioned by the migrant workers in the interviews were unemployment, monetary issues, and a difficult sustenance. The social concerns were described as anxious migrant exodus, discrimination, mistreatment, lack of social assistance, inability to fulfil their family’s expectations, lack of safe transportation arrangements by the authorities during the exodus, inadequacies in the public distribution system, law and order, and apathy of their employers. The psychological repercussions were described using terms like “fear,” “worry,” “loneliness,” “boredom,” “helplessness,” and “trapped.” Monetary compensation, job opportunities at the native place, and a well-managed migrant exodus were reportedly their key expectations from the government. Healthcare issues mentioned during the lockdown included a lack of facilities to treat common ailments, substandard care, and repeated COVID-19 testing prior to departure. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the need to have rehabilitation mechanisms such as targeted cash transfers, ration kits, and safe transportation services for migrant workers through inter-sectoral coordination for mitigating hardship. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, quarantine, psychological stress, financial stress, social isolation, India

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220127

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 33-45, 2023

Authors: Yarifard, Khadijeh | Abravesh, Akbar | Sokhanvar, Mobin | Mehrtak, Mohammad | Mousazadeh, Yalda

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Nurses, as the largest working group in the hospital, experience many problems, conflicts, and stressors in the workplace and family especially after the widespread distribution of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). OBJECTIVE: The perceived conflict and burnout among nurses, as well as the correlation between these two variables and the associated factors, were the main subjects of this study. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 256 nurses from three COVID-19 referral hospitals in northwest Iran. Participants completed demographic, work-family conflict (WFC), and burnout questionnaires. The nonparametric tests including Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman correlation coefficient were applied to …statistical analysis. RESULTS: The overall score of conflict was 55.3 (12.7). The time dimension received the highest score 11.4 (2.9). In terms of intensity 27.6 (8.7) and frequency 27.6(8.8), nurses had the most burnout in the lack of personal accomplishment dimension. All aspects of WFC, emotional exhaustion, and depersonalization characteristics of burnout had statistically significant positive correlations (p  < 0.01). The ward, hospital and employment status variables were associated with WFC (p  < 0.05). The association between taking the crisis management course and the severity of depersonalization, and the frequency of lack of personal accomplishment was confirmed (p  < 0.01). Additionally, the frequency and severity of emotional exhaustion were associated with employment status and work experiences (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The findings showed that nurses had WFC and burnout rates that were above average. Regarding the negative effects of these two phenomena on health, and also nurse’s clinical practices, rearranging work conditions and providing better organizational support seem necessary. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, burnout, conflict, work environment, mental health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220210

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 47-59, 2023

Authors: Frasie, Antoine | Houry, Maxime | Plourde, Charles | Robert, Maxime T. | Bouyer, Laurent J. | Roy, Jean-Sébastien

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) remain a challenge despite research aimed at improving their prevention and treatment. Extrinsic feedback has been suggested for the prevention and rehabilitation of WRMSDs to improve sensorimotor control, and ultimately to reduce pain and disability. However, there are few systematic reviews on the effectiveness of extrinsic feedback for WRMSDs. OBJECTIVE: To perform a systematic review investigating the effect of extrinsic feedback for the prevention and rehabilitation of WRMSDs. METHODS: Five databases (CINAHL, Embase, Ergonomics Abstract, PsycInfo, PubMed) were searched. Studies of various designs assessing the effects of extrinsic feedback during work …tasks on three outcomes (function, symptoms, sensorimotor control) in the context of prevention and rehabilitation of WRMSDs were included. RESULTS: Forty-nine studies were included, for a total sample of 3387 participants (including 925 injured) who performed work-related tasks in the workplace (27 studies) or in controlled environments (22 studies). The use of extrinsic feedback was shown to be effective in controlled environments for short-term prevention of functional limitations and sensorimotor alterations (very limited to moderate evidence) and for improving, in injured participants, function, symptoms and sensorimotor control (moderate evidence). In the workplace, it was shown to be effective for short-term prevention of functional limitations (limited evidence). There was conflicting evidence regarding its effect for WRMSD rehabilitation in the workplace. CONCLUSION: Extrinsic feedback is an interesting complementary tool for the prevention and rehabilitation of WRMSDs in controlled environments. More evidence is needed regarding its effect for the prevention and rehabilitation of WRMSDs in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: Occupational injuries, augmented feedback, therapeutics, musculoskeletal pain, systematic review

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220545

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 61-94, 2023

Authors: Ramezanifar, Soleiman | Shakiba, Zahra | Pirposhteh, Elham Akhlaghi | Poursadeghiyan, Mohsen | Sahlabadi, Ali Salehi

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fire extinguishing operations are carried out by firefighters equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE) in dangerous environments. Although PPE protects firefighters, it can affect many physiological parameters. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of PPE on firefighters’ heart rate (HR), oxygen consumption (OC) and body temperature (BT). METHODS: This systematic review thoroughly reviewed relevant articles in the reliable databases “Web of Science”, “Embase”, “IranDoc”, “IranMedex”, “SID”, “Magiran”, “Google Scholar”, “PubMed” and “Scopus” from 2010 to 2021. Some of the used search terms were “firefighters”, “personal protective equipment”, “heart rate” and “oxygen consumption”. …RESULTS: Out of the 405 studies identified through the systematic search, 18 articles were eligible according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist, among which 11 studies were conducted in North America, three in Asia, two in Europe, and two studies in Oceania. According to the review of studies, PPE increased HR, BT, and OC. The type of PPE components, the weight of the equipment, the kind of activity of firefighters, and weather conditions were among the influencing parameters on the extent of PPE’s influence on these physiological parameters. CONCLUSION: The results of the studies show that PPE separately and collectively affects the physiological parameters of HR, BT and OC. To reduce these effects, it is necessary to pay attention to several items, including the weight of PPE, the type of PPE ingredients in different weather conditions, and the type of activities of firefighters in PPE design. Show more

Keywords: Cardiac rate, fires, organ temperatures, oxygen consumptions, protective devices

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220121

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 95-107, 2023

Authors: Hedlund, Åsa | Boman, Eva | Kristofferzon, Marja-Leena | Nilsson, Annika

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Common mental disorders (CMDs) are currently a major cause of long-term sick leave, with women being most affected. OBJECTIVE: Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), we aimed to describe the development and psychometric evaluation of a new questionnaire to measure women’s beliefs about return to work (RTW) after long-term sick leave for CMDs. METHODS: Data were collected in central Sweden from women on long-term sick leave (2– 24 months) for CMDs. The questionnaire was developed by conducting an elicitation study with 20 women and included both direct and indirect measures. Subsequently, 282 women participated …in a psychometric evaluation and 35 of them in a test-retest procedure. Psychometric properties were evaluated by determining reliability (internal consistency [Cronbach’s alpha] and test-retest stability [intraclass correlation coefficient]), construct validity (exploratory factor analysis) and content validity. RESULTS: The development resulted in 60 questionnaire items. Content validity assessment showed that the women overall found it easy to complete the questionnaire. Reliability analyses showed satisfactory results for both direct and indirect measures, with a few exceptions. Factor analyses of the indirect scales showed that items were generally in line with the TPB, but that items related to life as a whole/personal life and items related to work were separated into two different factors. CONCLUSION: The questionnaire, called the RTW Beliefs Questionnaire, showed promising results and can among women with CMDs be considered useful, especially the scales for direct measures. This questionnaire gives opportunity to identify new potential predictors for RTW. Show more

Keywords: Mental health recovery, psychological theory, psychometrics, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220301

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 109-124, 2023

Authors: Manouchehri, Simin | Mirmohammadi, Seyyed Jalil | Vakili, Mahmood | Mehrparvar, Amir Houshang | Mirzaei, Masoud

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Recent studies suggest that shift work may cause liver dysfunction. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the relationship between different patterns of shift work and elevated level of liver enzymes. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 1910 workers aged 35 to 70 years were selected with simple random sampling from 9978 participants of the recruitment phase of Shahedieh PERSIAN cohort study. Level of serum liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT) and ALT/AST ratio was compared between shift workers and non-shift workers, and among employees working in different patterns of shift work. Data were analyzed by …SPSS (version 21.0) using Student’s T test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test, Kruskal Wallis test, and logistic regression. RESULTS: Among 1347 males (71%) and 563 females (29%) with a mean age of 40.4±7.4 years, 469 were shift workers. Fixed evening type shift was the most common (30.3%) and fixed night-shift was the least common (0.9%) type of shift work. The mean blood levels of liver enzymes was not significantly different between shift workers and non-shift workers. In comparison between different patterns of shift work, the mean serum level of GGT was significantly higher in individuals with slow rotating shifts than those with fixed evening shifts, rapid rotating, split and fixed 24 hour shifts (p ≤0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors only elevated AST was significantly higher in shift workers. CONCLUSION: There was only a significant association between shift work and elevated AST, and no relationship was found with ALT, ALP, GGT, and ALT/AST ratio. Show more

Keywords: Liver enzymes, Shahedieh cohort study, aminotransferase

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220110

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 125-133, 2023