Work - Volume 79, issue 4

Authors: Castro, Leticia S.R. | Nogueira, Débora S.S. | Fu, Carolina | Casarotto, Raquel A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Intensive care physiotherapists are exposed to situations that may cause physical and mental overload, which can lead to the onset of work-related musculoskeletal complaints. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to analyze these complaints and to identify activities causing greater overload, factors associated with complaints, and management and prevention strategies. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 125 physiotherapists in the Intensive Care units (ICU) of a tertiary hospital. The questionnaire used was formulated from questionnaires validated in the literature such as Nordic Questionnaire and Bork Questionnaire. Chi-square test was performed to compare the groups with and …without complaints. Logistic regression was used to assess the association effects of the variables on the presence of complaints. RESULTS: Of those interviewed, 76% had a work-related complaint in the last year, with the “lower back” being the most affected region. Eighty percent had complaints for more than one site. “Transfer” was considered the activity causing the greatest overload. Female sex (p  = 0.023), lack of physical activity (p  = 0.028), inadequate ventilation (p  = 0.001) and inadequate furniture (p  = 0.006) showed a statistically significant association effect with the presence of complaints. Inadequate ventilation (p  = 0.003) and female sex (p  = 0.004) influenced the number of affected areas. Physical activity was considered the main strategy for prevention. CONCLUSION: Musculoskeletal complaints accounted for a high percentage of the analyzed sample, mainly in the lower back. The extent of complaints suggests that strategies should be developed and changes in work dynamics should be carried out. Show more

Keywords: Cumulative traumatic disorders, repetitive stress injury, intensive care units, occupational health, physical therapists, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230422

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1815-1827, 2024

Authors: Matheson, Leonard N. | Verna, Joe L. | Mayer, John M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Multidimensional Task Ability Profile (MTAP) is a measure of self reported physical work capacity developed for injured workers with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) to determine readiness to return to work. OBJECTIVE: This study compared the concurrent validity of a new short form MTAP (MTAP-SF) comprised of 16 lifting and/or carrying items with the MTAP 55-item version. The hypothesis addressed is whether the validity of a version that imposes less respondent burden (MTAP-SF) would be comparable to the more burdensome instrument (MTAP-55). METHODS: MTAP scores were compared with demonstrated lift capacity in 1,252 healthy adults. Parallel …regression analyses were conducted to examine the explanatory power of both MTAP versions. RESULTS: Age, gender, body mass and MTAP-SF explained 55% of the variance (p  < 0.001) in demonstrated lift capacity, equivalent to MTAP-55. CONCLUSIONS: Self reported performance in physical work capacity tasks accounts for significant variance in lifting performance. MTAP-SF diminishes respondent burden while maintaining validity and may be useful for managing MSDs by enhancing understanding of the evaluee’s psychophysical component in return-to-work rehabilitation planning. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, work capacity evaluation, return to work, functional capacity evaluation, physical functional performance, occupational health, disability evaluation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230438

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1829-1841, 2024

Authors: Daffin, Lee | Innes, Stanley | Stuelcken, Max C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: It is known that even under static conditions a backpack wearer will need to make some adjustments to maintain postural stability. There is a paucity of research exploring the impact of altering the position of the feet with imposed loads of variable distance from the posterior midline. OBJECTIVE: Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine if changes in the horizontal position of a fixed load when wearing a backpack affect specific variables derived from foot tracings of males and females standing with their self-selected natural feet position. METHODS: 150 healthy volunteer participants were …instructed to adopt a natural stance across four conditions: Backpack with no weight, backpack with a weight (5% of body mass) placed at 0 cm, 20 cm, and 40 cm distance from the posterior body. Foot tracings were made for each condition. Base of Support (BoS), Feet Width (FW), and Feet Opening Angle (FOA) were calculated. RESULTS: The BoS significantly decreased in loaded conditions (0 cm, 20 cm and 40 cm) compared to unloaded. This was supported by FW and FOA significant findings that once the load was imposed the response was to approximate the feet and reduce ‘toeout’. CONCLUSION: This reaction of people to reduce their BoS in response to added backpack load appears counter intuitive and raises the question of whether this is maladaptive. Clarification by further investigation will inform backpack wearers to counter this instinctive response to load and increase postural stability. Show more

Keywords: Photogrammetry, feet position, preferred stance, base of support, postural assessment, backpacks

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230488

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1843-1850, 2024

Authors: Hazelzet, Emmelie | Bosma, Hans | de Rijk, Angelique | Houkes, Inge

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: To improve the sustainable employability (SE) of employees in low-skilled jobs, there is an urgent need to implement more effective approaches for this group. OBJECTIVE: This evaluation study aimed to get insight into the effect and implementation process of an organisational intervention called ‘Healthy HR’ (HHR), which promoted the job control and SE of employees in low-skilled jobs in two Dutch organisations. METHODS: An effect evaluation with a pretest-posttest design and a mixed-methods process evaluation were conducted. Quantitative data were collected at baseline (N  = 120) and at 12 months’ follow-up (N  = 71). Paired t -tests …and dose-response analyses were performed (N  = 50). Mixed-methods process data were collected on the implementation process using questionnaires, individual interviews with employees and employer representatives (N  = 26), focus groups (N  = 4) and logbooks. RESULTS: A positive effect was found for job control at 12 months’ follow-up. An effect on the distal outcome SE was not significant. The dose-response analysis showed that a higher dose of HHR resulted in better job control. This positive effect was supported by the qualitative process analysis. HHR had a positive impact on the awareness level about health and healthy workplaces among all stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a promising participatory approach to improve job control for employees in low-skilled jobs by actively involving them in a genuine dialogue and giving them an active voice. Effects on SE might require a longer follow-up. Show more

Keywords: Employees in low-skilled jobs, evaluation, mixed-methods, job control, sustainable employability, intervention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230507

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1851-1866, 2024

Authors: Li, Yan | Xu, Haijuan | Li, Rongzong | Cheng, Muxiang | Wen, Cuiju

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are among the most commonly reported occupational diseases worldwide. Healthcare workers, such as medical radiation staff, are susceptible to WMSDs. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and their influencing factors among professionals working in medical radiation institutions. METHODS: This study employed cluster random sampling and included 1669 medical radiation staff members from medical units and institutions in Guangdong Province, China. The modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to analyze musculoskeletal symptoms in nine body regions over the previous 12 months. The chi-square test was used to analyze …the association between WMSDs and these factors. Logistic regression was used to identify potential influencing factors. RESULTS: This study collected 1669 complete and valid questionnaires. The overall self-reported prevalence of WMSDs among medical radiation staff was 15.3%. Multivariate logistic regression showed that gender, alcohol consumption, senior rank hospital, repetitive motions at work, overtime work, and prolonged maintenance of the same posture increased the risk of WMSDs (P  < 0.05). Adjustable work chairs and comfortable workplace temperatures were protective factors against WMSDs (P  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Being female, alcohol consumption, higher hospital level, repetitive motions, working overtime, and maintaining a single posture contributed to the risk of neck, shoulder, and lower back WMSDs among medical radiation staff. Prevention and management strategies to facilitate reduction in adverse health effects on the occupational health of the medical radiation staff should be considered. Show more

Keywords: Radiation exposure, medical staff, occupational health, MSD, musculoskeletal pain, work-related musculoskeletal symtoms

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230552

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1867-1877, 2024

Authors: Tang, Meirun | Fu, Lifei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Amidst the post-COVID-19 economic downturn and the expanding higher education landscape in China, employee employment challenges have given rise to the widespread overqualification issue. This phenomenon has attracted extensive attention and is prompting a need for an in-depth exploration of perceived overqualification. However, existing studies predominantly concentrate on its outcomes rather than antecedents, leaving a notable gap in understanding the influence mechanism between individual advantageous resources (e.g., job embeddedness, career adaptability) and overqualification, particularly in specific events such as career shocks. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine the interplay between employees’ career adaptability, job embeddedness, and the …mediating role of relative deprivation in shaping perceived overqualification, particularly in the aftermath of career shocks. METHODS: A comprehensive analysis was conducted using data gathered from 339 questionnaire responses. Partial Least Square (PLS) path analysis, R’s necessary condition analysis (NCA), and the Random Forest (RF) algorithm were employed to scrutinize the relationships and identify critical factors influencing perceived overqualification. RESULTS: The findings indicate that after encountering career shocks, career adaptability and job embeddedness not only directly impact perceived overqualification but also exert their influence indirectly through the mediation of relative deprivation; Career adaptability, job embeddedness, and relative deprivation are necessary conditions for perceived overqualification, with relative deprivation having the most significant impact. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results, focusing on the psychological changes of employees after suffering career shocks provides valuable guidance for managers in channelling the emotional and cognitive responses of their employees. Show more

Keywords: Conservation of Resources Theory, Turnover Unfolding Model, Relative Deprivation, Career Shocks, Overqualification, Necessary Conditions Analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230587

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1879-1893, 2024

Authors: Chen, Na | Hu, Yitong | Liang, Man | Qin, Xiangnan | Liu, Jun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research on muscle activity to reduce injuries during firefighting training has getting increasing attention. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the activity changes in nine muscles of firefighters during the seven firefighting training programs, and to analyze the influence of different firefighting training programs on muscle activity. METHODS: Ten healthy male firefighters were recruited to measure the field surface electromyographic activities (including the percentage of Maximum Voluntary Contraction electromyography (% MVC) and the integrated electromyography value (iEMG)) during all the firefighting training programs. RESULTS: The results showed that the electromyographic …activity of gastrocnemius (GA) was stronger in climbing the hooked ladder and climbing the six-meter long ladder training programs. Arms, shoulders, and lower limb muscles were more activated, myoelectric activities were more intense, and fatigue in these areas was more likely to occur during climbing five-story building with loads. Compared with other muscles, erector spine (ES) had a higher degree of activation during different postures of water shooting. The Borg scale scores of shoulders, trunk, thighs and calves were also higher. CONCLUSION: After completing all training programs, GA, tibialis anterior (TA), trapezius (TR), and ES were strongly activated, and all muscles had obvious force. The % MVC and iEMG analyses correspond well with the Borg Scale score. The results can provide certain reference for reducing the musculoskeletal injury of firefighters, carrying out scientific training and formulating effective injury prevention measures for them. Show more

Keywords: Firefighter, muscle activity, ergonomics, surface electromyography (sEMG), % MVC, iEMG, firefighting training program

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230614

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1895-1908, 2024

Authors: Ollé-Espluga, Laia | Vargas-Leguas, Hernán | Torrens Mèlich, Lluís | Juan Serra, Marta | Arcas, Maria Marta | Cortès-Franch, Imma

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In 2018, Barcelona City Council implemented a pilot phase of an organisational change in the municipal home care service (HCS) system. Inspired by the Buurtzorg model, the new model promotes the creation of self-managing teams operating in a restricted community setting. OBJECTIVE: To assess the pilot phase of the new model, focusing on employees’ working and employment conditions as well as on their health and well-being outcomes. METHODS: Mixed-methods impact evaluation. First, a quantitative evaluation was conducted between October 2018 and October 2020, using a pre-post study design with one pretest and two posttest measurements …in an intervention and a comparison group. The intervention group was composed of the members of the work teams implemented in the pilot phase from October 2018 onwards (baseline n  = 44). The comparison group consisted of workers from the same districts working under the usual HCS system (baseline n  = 72). Next, a qualitative study was conducted in workers from the intervention group in winter 2021–2022 (n  = 10). RESULTS: The pre-post study results yielded positive changes for the intervention group in social support and autonomy, as well as in many of the employment conditions. This group also experienced increases in psychological demands, painful positions, fatigue and psychological distress. Two main themes affecting workers’ well-being emerged from the interviews: factors inherent to the self-management model and external factors. CONCLUSIONS: Health and well-being outcomes seem to depend on the balance between job demands, resources, and ways of channelling conflicts within teams. Show more

Keywords: Home care services, self-organising teams, employment conditions, working conditions, health, evaluation study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230668

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1909-1924, 2024

Authors: Guo, Zenghui | Chen, Zhiyuan | Pai, Junjun | Fang, Bin | Liang, Wenhao | Su, Guosheng | Zheng, Feng

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Due to the unfavourable neck-shoulder muscle loads caused by poor posture, the people who use the laptop for a long time may face the risk of neck and shoulder injuries. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study investigates the impact of the screen height on the muscle activation of head flexion, neck and shoulder, and the cervical spine torque to provide the favorite screen height for laptop user. METHODS: Twelve healthy young participants completed a 15-minute task of the reading at the four different screen heights. sEMG signals of the splenius capitis (SC) and upper trapezius …(UT) were measured and calculated the root mean square (RMS) and mean power frequency (MPF) to determine muscle fatigue. The different height of laptop users was simulated and the forces on the spine of users at different screen heights were analyzed by Jack. RESULTS: Adjusting the height of the laptop screen can effectively reduce head flexion and muscle activity of SC and UT, and has a positive effect on reducing fatigue of SC, but has no significant effect on UT. CONCLUSIONS: Adjusting the height of the laptop screen can delay the occurrence of SC muscle fatigue to a certain extent. The joint analysis of sEMG spectrum and amplitude reports that the screen heights of D15 and D45 have the highest and the lowest frequency of fatigue, respectively. At the same time, the moment of spineT1/T2 and spineL4/L5 decrease with the increase of screen height. Show more

Keywords: Posture, occupational health, ergonomics, electromyography, muscle fatigue, neck pain, shoulder pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230719

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1925-1937, 2024

Authors: Keskin, Gülseren | Gümüşsoy, Süreyya | Taşdemir Yiğitoğlu, Gülay

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Disasters such as the COVID-19 pandemic have serious traumatic effects on people, who may experience sleep problems, anxiety, and fear in the face of such a stressor. OBJECTIVE: This study is conducted to examine the relationship between sleep quality and fear of COVID-19, anxiety, and personality traits in working women. METHOD: This research was a descriptive study between June to August 2021. The study was conducted with 425 participants. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, COVID-19 Fear Scale, Beck Anxiety Scale, and the revised Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Short Form were applied to the participants. T-test, ANOVA, and …Pearson correlation analysis, were used. RESULTS: In the study, it was found that the total average score of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale was 18.83±5.5, while the score of sleep quality was 5.40±3.3 and the anxiety score was 14.01±12.4. On the other hand, the score of Extraversion was determined as 3.73±1.7, Neuroticism was 3.79±1.8, and Psychoticism was 1.97±1 in the study. Moreover, a statistically significant positive correlation was found between sleep quality and fear of COVID-19, anxiety, and neuroticism in working women (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep disturbance; daytime dysfunction, use of sleep medication, sleep duration, sleep latency with anxiety; sleep latency, sleep quality, daytime dysfunction, sleep duration were found to be linked to neuroticism, and use of sleep medication and sleep duration were found to be linked to psychoticism. It was concluded that there was a relationship between sleep quality and fear of COVID-19, anxiety, and personality traits in working women. Show more

Keywords: Distress, fear, pandemic, personality, sleep, gender

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230724

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1939-1950, 2024

Authors: Aguiar, Ana | Soares, Patrícia | Barbosa, Pedro | Duarte, Raquel | Pinto, Marta

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread lockdowns and remote work and educational practices that have impacted the lives of many families. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate how parents and caregivers altered their routines due to online schooling and teleworking, exploring their association with increased anxiety and depression symptoms. METHODS: We conducted an online cross-sectional study and collected data through snowball sampling. We asked questions about age, gender, dwelling area, educational level, and marital status, as well as an open-ended question about teleworking and homeschooling – “Did your routine change due to your children being forced …to stay home and take online classes? If so, please explain how it has influenced your personal and professional life, both positively and negatively”. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the responses. RESULTS: A total of 181 respondents, primarily women (72.4%), averaging 36.6 years old, holding bachelor’s degrees (44.2%), were included. About 78.5% reported routine adjustments. Four salient themes emerged: 1) Perceived changes in professional and personal life, 2) Perceived changes in learning methods, 3) Mental health issues and 4) Perceived advantages of working from home with children at online school. Regarding mental health, 25.4% exhibited symptoms of anxiety, and 7.7% displayed depression symptoms, predominantly linked (80%) to the pandemic’s impact. CONCLUSION: Family routines were disrupted, causing stress. In future crises, policymakers, public health experts, and researchers must acknowledge these challenges to mitigate negative consequences. Simultaneously, they should focus on strategies that enhance the positive aspects of restrictive measures and related policies. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, teleschool, teleworking, Portugal, mixed methods, parents, children

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230730

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1951-1966, 2024

Authors: Şahin, İhsan Emrecan | Durmaz, Vildan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The accumulated knowledge has led to a state of misunderstanding about the precise meanings of digitalization, and a precise framework to define smart airports is still missing. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to reveal the current status and future direction of smart airports and digital transformation in the academic literature and to provide a comprehensive definition for smart airports. METHODS: The identified keywords were searched in the Web of Science database covering the years 1989-2024 and a total of 372 studies were found. These studies were then analyzed using Bibliometrix (R package). RESULTS: We …determined that the most influential academic source on the themes is the Journal of Air Transport Management, and the collaboration index in the literature is three. While conferences are the most productive sources in this field, academic journals are mostly cited in studies. Academic studies typically employ and evaluate “performance” and “model,” “impact” and “air,” and “economic development” and “location” in tandem, despite the distinction between technological and managerial issues. CONCLUSION: In the light of the findings, the definition of a smart airport can be “an airport ecosystem where personalized service is provided to users by using Industry 4.0 technologies on the basis of big data analysis and real-time sharing between objects; digitalization is turned into a holistic organizational culture starting from top management to cover all personnel; the decision-making process is carried out autonomously within the entire airport operation network; and the main goal of competitive advantage and high-level user experience is provided uninterruptedly.” Show more

Keywords: Air travel, aviation, trends, digital technology, airports, data visualization

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230737

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1967-1994, 2024

Authors: Boden, Leslie I. | Pan, Yixin | Gregas, Matt | McTernan, Melissa | Peters, Susan E. | Bhagia, Div | Wagner, Gregory R. | Sabbath, Erika L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Few studies have addressed whether using manager or worker perceptions of safety policies and practices alone predict reported injury rates less accurately than using both. OBJECTIVE: This study provides an example and describes a method that can be used to address this issue with survey instruments designed to measure safety climate, policies, or practices. METHODS: Using multilevel logistic regression, we estimated the relationship between worker and manager perceptions of a given exposure and the odds of worker injury during the post-survey year for three safety scales. We tested whether surveying both workers and managers provides …additional predictive value compared with surveying just one group, RESULTS: Injury in the year following the survey was significantly associated with worker scores on two of the three scales. Manager responses were not significantly associated with injury and did not significantly improve injury rate prediction when added to a model with only worker survey responses. CONCLUSIONS: The capacity of manager-only or worker-only perceptions of safety policies and practices to predict worker injuries should be established before choosing to survey just one or the other. The approach and findings in this paper can be applied to other survey instruments and in other settings to help make this choice. Show more

Keywords: Survey research, safety policies and practices, injury prevention, occupational safety and health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240029

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 1995-2002, 2024

Authors: Liu, Wenyao | Meng, Qingfeng | Li, Zhen | Ai, Xijie | Chong, Heap-Yih

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Frontline supervisors have the most frequent interactions with workers on construction projects. Although Supervisors’ Safety Leadership (SSL) is commonly practiced, its specific inter-relationship with workers’ safety violations remains unclear, especially when it comes to detailed interactions between supervisors and workers, such as supervisors’ safety coaching/safety controlling/safety caring against workers’ situational/routine safety violations. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to uncover the intrinsic relationship between SSL and safety violations from the perspective of construction workers with the help of mediating variables at both organizational and individual levels. METHODS: A questionnaire survey was conducted to test all hypotheses based …on empirical data from 346 construction workers. The path coefficient of the fitted model was then analyzed, including associated mediating effects. RESULTS: Situational safety violations are directly affected only by safety caring (β= –0.161, p  < 0.05), while routine safety violations are impacted only by safety coaching (β= –0.159, p  < 0.05). SSL can influence different types of safety violations through differing mediators. In particular, safety coaching acts on individuals’ routine safety violations mainly through self-efficacy (β= 0.199, p  < 0.01; standardized indirect effect = –0.121, 95% CI[–0.226, –0.024]); safety controlling is more oriented to influence individuals’ situational safety violations through group safety norm (β= 0.383, p  < 0.001; standardized indirect effect = –0.091, 95% CI[–0.177, –0.036]); and safety caring further influences individuals’ situational safety violations mainly through safety motivation (β= 0.581, p  < 0.001; standardized indirect effect = –0.263, 95% CI[–0.418, –0.146]). CONCLUSION: The research enhances existing knowledge by clarifying the complex relationships between supervisor behavior and safety outcomes, particularly from the perceptions of construction workers towards supervisors’ actions and leadership. Show more

Keywords: Supervisors’ safety leadership, construction worker, safety violations, safety motivation, group safety norm, self-efficacy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240048

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2003-2021, 2024

Authors: Aguilar-Elena, Raúl | Agún-González, Juan José

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This study stands for the first Spanish investigation that rigorously evaluates the compliance regarding the use of biological protection gloves as essential personal protective equipment (PPE) in companies with exposure to biological agents in workplaces. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to analyse the degree of use of biological protection gloves as personal protective equipment (PPE), the factors that influence its use, and the profile of workers exposed to occupational biological agents in Spanish companies in the health sector, farms, meat industry, waste treatment plants, food industry and veterinary centers. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study …involving 590 Spanish workers from 51 companies. We developed a 34-item questionnaire to assess workers’ risk perception related to exposure to biological agents in their workplaces. Among the questions, three were designed to find the degree of use of key protective equipment in sectors with biological agent exposure: protective gloves, goggles or face shields, and respirators. We performed various statistical analyses, including Cronbach’s alpha, frequency of endorsement, Content Validity Ratio (CVR) using Lawshe’s method, Varimax rotation, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO), and Bartlett’s sphericity test, to assess the internal consistency and reliability of the questionnaire. Additionally, we employed a CHAID segmentation analysis, using workers’ responses regarding their attitude toward glove usage as PPE for protection against biological risks, with demographic variables as independent factors. RESULTS: The CHAID analysis yielded a segmentation diagram, revealing five distinct groups or profiles of workers based on their use of protective gloves. CONCLUSION: Our study, through CHAID analysis, highlights that workers tend to use protective gloves more frequently when there is an internal Health and Safety department within the company. Show more

Keywords: Biological agents, CHAID, risk assessment, work biohazard, job profiles, PPE, gloves

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240053

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2023-2032, 2024

Authors: Memon, Muhammad Rizwan | Memon, Hina | Memon, Sarwat | Memon, Shahzad | Bhurgri, Humera | Baig, Muhammad Nadeem | Khattak, Osama | Iqbal, Azhar | Issrani, Rakhi | Prabhu, Namdeo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Safety signs are very important communication tools for accident prevention, fire safety, health hazard information, and emergency evacuation. However, they are helpful only when properly designed and understood by employees. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the present study was to assess the awareness of health and safety signs amongst health care workers including doctors, dentists and paramedics in different health care sectors across Pakistan. METHODS: Data was collected via Google forms circulated through WhatsApp social media to predetermined groups of health care professionals to assess their understanding of safety signs across different health sectors. The survey …included questions pertaining to awareness of 19 different health and safety signs complied with International Organization for Standardization 1710 and the Safety Signs and Signal Regulations 1996 chosen randomly. RESULTS: A total of 987 people participated in our study and were asked to comprehend the meaning of nineteen health and safety signs. The mean comprehension score for 19 signs was 42.2%. The mean score for warning signs was the lowest and fire safety signs was highest. The lowest comprehension scores were for oxygen cylinder sign (W029) 7.5% and highest for first aid sign (E003) 75.9%. Only two signs, that are first aid (E003) and mandatory gloves (M009) had acceptable comprehensive score of 75.9% and 73.7% respectively as per ISO 7010 i.e. >67%. Statistically significant differences were found only for trip hazard sign (W007) with respect to education and for risks of bomb explosion (W002), ionising radiation (W009), evacuation assembly point (E007), location of automated external heart defibrillator (E010) and mandatory gloves (M009) with work experience. CONCLUSION: Based on our results, we conclude that there is dire need of special and frequent training to better recognize the safety signs amongst health care employees since these kinds of interventions promote early detection of hazards and their associated risks. Thus, we propose that health care safety sign training must be included in every health care profession curriculum. Show more

Keywords: Safety, health care, accident prevention, workplace, curriculum, emergencies

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240064

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2033-2044, 2024

Authors: Chandrasekaran, Baskaran | Arumugam, Ashokan | Pesola, Arto J. | Davis, Fiddy | Rao, Chythra R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: High levels of sedentary behavior in workplaces are currently recognized as an independent risk factor for cognitive dysfunction and poor mental health. However, sedentary patterns vary between workdays and non-workdays, which may influence cognitive functions. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to quantify and compare work and nonwork device-measured sedentary time (ST) and its association with cognitive function in Indian office workers. METHODS: In an ongoing randomized controlled trial (SMART-STEP), the baseline data of 136 full-time office workers, including accelerometer-measured sedentary patterns and cognitive functions, were analyzed. The ST was measured using a hip-worn accelerometer (Actigraph …wGT3X-BT) for seven days, and executive functions were measured using computer-based tests. Linear regression models were employed to analyze the relationships between ST and executive function measures. RESULTS: The median daily ST of Indian office workers was 11.41 hours. The ST was greater on both workdays (11.43 hrs.) and non-workdays (11.14 hrs.) though different (F  = 6.76, p  = 0.001, η p 2  = 0.032). Office workers accumulate more prolonged sitting bouts (+21.36 min) during work days than non-workdays. No associations between device-measured ST and executive functions were observed. CONCLUSION: Indian office workers exhibited high ST patterns, especially on workdays. Although lower than workdays, Indian office workers exhibited more ST patterns during non-workdays than did their Western counterparts. Culturally adaptable workplace and leisure time physical activity interventions are needed to address the high ST of Indian office workers. Show more

Keywords: Prevalence, sedentary time, workplace sitting, reaction times, cognition, Indian, office worker

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240129

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2045-2058, 2024

Authors: Martin, Joel R. | Lockie, Robert G. | Fyock-Martin, Marcie | Clark, Nicholas C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Firefighter physical fitness (PF) plays a crucial role in mitigating health issues and supporting occupational performance. The influence of rank on firefighter PF remains understudied and previous research is often limited by small sample sizes of firefighters volunteering for research studies, potentially biasing results towards fitter firefighters not representative of entire departments. OBJECTIVE: To examine the PF profile of firefighters in a large urban fire department and the influence of age and rank on PF. METHODS: Data, including muscular fitness, estimated aerobic capacity (VO2 max), and body fat percentage (BF%) measures from 1361 firefighters (90% …male; age: 37.4±10.1yrs; 60 recruits, 973 firefighters, 290 lieutenants/captains, 38 chiefs) were analyzed. Correlation and ANCOVAs were conducted to examine the impact of rank on PF while controlling for age. Score distributions were scrutinized to profile the PF of the department. RESULTS: Age was negatively associated with pull-ups (r  = – 0.39), sit-ups (r  = – 0.39), and push-ups (r  = – 0.32), but positively associated with relative VO2 max (r  = 0.17) and BF% (r  = 0.39). Rank had a statistically significant, but trivial effect size, on pull-ups (p  = 0.028, η 2  = 0.007) and sit-ups (p  = 0.034, η 2  = 0.005). Firefighters with lower PF levels were older, had higher BF%, lower fat-free mass, and were a greater proportion of females. CONCLUSIONS: Firefighters exhibited diverse levels of PF. Age, not rank, appeared to influence firefighters’ PF. The findings that firefighters who were older, female, with poorer body composition are more likely to have lower PF levels highlights the need for individualized PF training to enhance occupational performance and health across the fire department. Show more

Keywords: Firefighter, career, physical fitness, aerobic, muscular, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240150

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2059-2073, 2024

Authors: Isik, Volkan | Ozdemir, Mustafa Caglar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational accidents are anticipated to decline when unregistered employment declines because of more regulated working conditions, inspections, and opportunities for legal protection. In the study, the accuracy of this presumption was examined. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine how to protective legal regulations generate a relationship between occupational accidents and informal employment such as the Occupational Health and Safety Law in Turkey. METHODS: In the research, which was structured within the framework of the quantitative method, various levels of relationship chains were created between informal employment and occupational accidents using correlation and slope calculations. The …official data set was created using secondary data from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the Social Security Institution. RESULTS: It has been determined that the low positive correlation (r  = 0.166) between unregistered employment and occupational accidents in 2008–2012 (pre-legislation period) in Turkey changed to the medium-negative direction (r =–0.602) in 2013–2020 (legislation period). While the assumption that unregistered employment would decrease in the first period was confirmed, the hypothesis was falsified by the increase in occupational accidents despite the decrease in informality in the second period. CONCLUSION: This study is unique because it shows that in a developing country where unregistered employment is high, the protective regulations for work accidents do not reflect a decrease in the number of work accidents in the short and medium term. Show more

Keywords: Informal sectors, occupational accident, occupational health, occupational safety, government regulations, social security.

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240158

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2075-2085, 2024

Authors: Mane, Vinita | Rajhans, Neela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related disability is caused commonly due to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in dentistry. Prolonged static awkward and repetitive postures cause MSD in dentists. The study was executed to confirm the development of MSD in various body regions as they have to work in a small oral cavity to perform crucial dental procedures with precision and concentration. OBJECTIVE: To assess the occurrence of the MSD in several body regions of dentists and to carry out postural study thereby helping them improve posture. METHODS: Dentists were assessed for their current working postures with various MSD symptoms and its …effects. The questionnaire was devised to get musculoskeletal health data from dentists. The postural load was investigated using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Various risk factors contributing to MSD symptoms were identified after data were statistically analysed using IBM SPSS version 27. RESULTS: According to the current study neck, shoulder, lower back, upper back, wrist hand, elbow, hip, thigh, knee, and ankle were the most affected anatomical regions. Average RULA score for the current study was found to be 6.75 which indicated a need of change of posture while performing dental procedures. There is statistical correlation between gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), uncomfortable positions, stretching, use of ergonomic saddle chair, hand dominance and MSD. There is no statistical correlation between years of experience and MSD. CONCLUSION: Current workstation (Dental Chair) requires immediate improvements as evident from the postural load analysis, thus immediate implementation of intervention program is required. Show more

Keywords: Dentistry, ergonomics, musculoskeletal pain, posture, occupational health, occupational injuries, health care

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240184

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2087-2101, 2024

Authors: Rogerson, Shane | Brearley, Matt

Article Type: Case Report

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the event of a severe occupational heat-related illness, paramedic assistance may not be immediately available. A worker’s survival may depend on their co-workers access to efficacious field-based cooling modalities. One cooling method that has been claimed to be practical in field-based settings is the ice towel method. OBJECTIVES: This case study assessed the practicality of the ice towel method in an industrial setting, where criteria for use include cost effectiveness, portability, scalability, and implementation by a single worker under the stress of an emergency. METHODS: This case study describes the emergency application of the …ice towel method while awaiting paramedics, for a worker suffering suspected exertional heat stroke on a remote job site. RESULTS: Ice towels were able to be transported to a remote field site and applied successfully by a single worker under the stress of a potentially life-threatening emergency. CONCLUSIONS: The ice towel method was cost effective, scalable, transportable, and rapidly applied in a field-based emergency. This case study demonstrates the importance of organizations assessing their heat-related risks, and determining controls based upon their efficacy and practicality for their unique setting. Show more

Keywords: Core temperature, heat stroke, heat illness, workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-240060

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 4, pp. 2103-2108, 2024