Work - Volume 40, issue 4

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1245

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 343-343, 2011

Authors: Castillo-Retamal, Marcelo | Hinckson, Erica A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: To identify methods used to assess physical activity and sedentary behaviour at the workplace and review the validity and reliability of these measures. Methods: Databases were searched for relevant published articles including MEDLINE, SPORT Discus, ProQuest and Google Scholar. Keywords used were physical-activity, workplace, sedentary-behaviour, measurement and questionnaire. Studies included were original, written in English, published between 1990 and 2009, and focused on validated physical activity and sedentary behaviour …measures at work. Eleven papers were identified in which three used criterion standards, three objective measures, and five subjective measures. Results: The most common method of data collection was through self-report, surveys or questionnaires. Physical activity measured with motion sensors, ranged from 4,422 to 10,334 steps/day (pedometers) and sedentary time ranged from 1.8 to 6 hours/day (h/d) (accelerometers). Self-report measures provided information relevant to the perception of physical activity at work (∼ 0.5 h/d), sitting time (> 3 h/d) and calculated energy expenditure (< 800 kcal/d). Conclusion: Physical activity levels at work were low while sedentary behaviour was high. This was largely a function of occupation (white-collar vs. blue-collar). None of the studies assessed validity or reliability of measures used however, instruments as assessed by others showed moderate to strong validity and reliability values. Show more

Keywords: Measurement, workplace, sitting time

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1246

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 345-357, 2011

Authors: Chapman-Day, Kelly M. | Matheson, Leonard N. | Schimanski, Dean | Leicht, Janet | DeVries, Luke

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: Investigate the effect of the symptom magnification syndrome (SMS) behavior pattern on industrial rehabilitation on return to work and maintenance at work. Participants: A sample of 99 clients with active workers' compensation claims was studied; 25 identified as having SMS. Methods: A protocol-driven functional capacity evaluation (FCE) was administered and the presence of SMS was determined from a standard protocol that considered 13 factors. Results: Upon conclusion of intervention, 80 …of the 99 clients were classified as ready to return to full-time usual and customary employment. The readiness for full-time return to work among those who did not have SMS (84%) was not statistically different from those with the syndrome (72%). Six months after discharge, follow-up work status data were obtained for 63 clients. Among those that did not display SMS, 76% continued to work full time, while 39% of those initially identified as SMS were working, a statistically significant difference. Conclusions: SMS had no significant bearing on work readiness, but appears to impact maintenance of employment. The value of return to work on a modified basis may need to be reconsidered, because none of the clients who had been discharged ready for modified work were employed at the six-month follow-up. Show more

Keywords: Functional capacity evaluation, industrial rehabilitation, symptom magnification syndrome, malingering

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1247

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 359-367, 2011

Authors: Gardner-Harbeck, Jennifer L. | Fisher, Thomas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: This study was designed to determine the efficacy of the implementation of computer workstation recommendation by an occupational therapist and the satisfaction of employees with these recommendations. The original worksite analysis was performed to decrease pain symptoms and discomfort of employees whose work is at a computer. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the participants' work environments with a follow-up questionnaire used. All participant responses underwent a cross-case comparison analysis to identify themes. …Results: Six of the seven participants reported experiencing a reduction in their musculoskeletal pain symptoms after implementing the ergonomic recommendations made following the computer station worksite analysis by an occupational therapist. The changes led to increased comfort and productivity. Conclusions: Compliance of the workers following through with the recommendations contributed to the improvement in musculoskeletal pain and discomfort for employees. Using a worksite analysis to provide customized ergonomic recommendations for an individual's computer workstation resulted in decreased upper extremity musculoskeletal pain and increased productivity for these employees. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, workstation redesign, office workers, pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1248

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 369-374, 2011

Authors: Johansson, Annica E. M. | Johansson, Ulla

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: The purpose was to explore and describe the everyday life experiences among people with a disability pension and their expectations for future occupational life. Participants: A purposeful sample of 14 men and women were interviewed. Of these, ten people received full-time disability pension and four people were on partial disability pension while working part time. Methods and Results: A content analysis approach revealed three themes: strategies for handling a changed life …situation, adaptations to remaining functional capacity, and expectations on future occupational life. Initially, leaving the work market entailed a period of emotional discomfort. To help handle this discomfort, structures for participation and performance came to signify a balanced everyday life. Conclusions: The central conclusion drawn is that the informants with full-time disability pension reconciled themselves to their situation, changing their conception of what life on a disability pension means, while those informants who worked part-time saw their future role as that of worker. Thus, being employed constitutes one factor that promotes a future work career. Another factor related to work capacity is the need for balance between paid work and domestic work reported by disability pensioners working part-time. This area could serve as a point of departure for work rehabilitation. Show more

Keywords: Everyday life, social activity, work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1249

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 375-384, 2011

Authors: Yoo, In-Gyu | Lee, Jin | Jung, Min-Ye | Yang, No-Yul

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to detect any differences in electromyographic (EMG) activity in the neck and shoulder muscles while performing simulated orchard work with and without neck support. Participants: Fourteen healthy orchard harvesters (eight men and six women) who had no functional disorder of the neck or upper limbs and had never received orthopedic surgery were recruited. Methods: A repeated-measures design was used. The subjects were asked to perform simulated orchard work with …and without neck support. The EMG activities of the anterior deltoid, middle deltoid, upper trapezius, and triceps brachii (lateral head) muscles during the two conditions were analyzed using paired t-tests. Results: The EMG activity of the anterior deltoid and middle deltoid muscles increased significantly and that of the upper trapezius muscles decreased significantly when the working with a neck support compared to without it (p < 0.05). Wearing a neck support may prevent overuse of the upper trapezius muscles by encouraging shoulder elevation and activating the deltoid muscles. The activation of these muscles decreases scapular movement and the results in greater stabilization of scapulohumeral rhythm. Conclusions: The appropriate application of a neck support may be helpful in preventing disorders of the neck and shoulder muscles resulting from long-term intensive orchard work, however long term application of such support is necessary before definitive information is available. Show more

Keywords: Electromyography, UPGUARD 3000, work-related disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1250

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 385-391, 2011

Authors: Kawada, Tomoyuki | Otsuka, Toshiaki

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: Subjects with higher occupational position are speculated to have higher ability to handle with stress, and they were less affected by job stress. This study focused on the relationship between job satisfaction and three sub-scales of a brief job stress questionnaire (BJSQ) related to workload. Participants and Methods: This self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 371 employees of a company, and all the workers sent back their responses. Among the 57 items graded on …a 4-point Likert-type scale to measure job stressors, psycho-physical complaints, and support for workers, the authors studied the influence of quantitative and qualitative job overload (six items), job control (three items), and support port (six items). The job satisfaction score estimated on a 4-point Likert-type scale was also used in relation to job stress determined using a 15-item scale from the BJSQ based on demand-control-support model. Occupational positions were classified into directors, managers, and general workers, and the content of job was classified into clerical workers, skilled technicians, and unskilled manual workers. Results: All the scales on job stress presented acceptable alpha coefficients reflecting high internal consistency (job demand: 0.855, job control: 0.644, and support: 0.878, respectively). Principal axis factor analysis was conducted, and three factors were extracted; support, job demand and job control. There was a significant difference in the mean score among four groups divided by the job satisfaction level as evaluated by Dunnett's multiple comparison, and members who were dissatisfied with their job showed a high job demand, limited job control, and poor support. The mean score of support for managers were significantly higher (lower support) than that for general workers. The logistic regression analysis revealed that job control and support contributed significantly to job satisfaction. In addition, unskilled manual workers showed significantly higher job dissatisfaction compared with clerical workers. Conclusions: Worsening of job satisfaction was related to poor job control and lack of support. Strategies to alleviate job stress are therefore urgently needed. Show more

Keywords: Job stress, job satisfaction, demand-control-support model, questionnaire, occupational position

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1251

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 393-399, 2011

Authors: Köller, B. | Niedermann, K. | Klipstein, A. | Haugboelle, J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: Occupational therapists play an important role in work rehabilitation in getting people with chronic disabilities back to work. The Worker Role Interview (WRI) is intended to detect psychosocial and environmental factors influencing the ability to return to work for injured or disabled workers. This study examined the psychometric properties of the recently modified German version (WRI-G, 10.0) in a population with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in Switzerland. Methods: Data were gathered from 20 …participants with work-related MSD. The interviews were conducted face-to-face and videotaped. Five occupational therapists, trained in the use of the WRI-G, independently rated all 20 interview recordings following the official manual. Thus, 100 ratings were analysed by use of Rasch analysis to test construct validity and transform ordinal raw data into linear data (person locations) for interrater-reliability calculations. Results: All items fit the Rasch model, except the item 'perception of boss'. The final WRI-G, consisting of 15~items, showed good overall model fit (X^{2} = 54.66, p= 0.04); excellent person-separation reliability (PSI 0.91) and high inter-rater reliability (mean ICC 0.90). Conclusions: Based on this sample, the WRI-G (10.0) is a valid and reliable instrument to assess psychosocial ability for return to work in a population with work-related MSD. Show more

Keywords: Work rehabilitation, musculoskeletal disorders, assessment, model of human occupation, rasch analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1252

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 401-410, 2011

Authors: Largo-Wight, Erin | Chen, W. William | Dodd, Virginia | Weiler, Robert

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Understanding and promoting healthy workplaces is an important and growing area of interest in occupational health. Nature contact is a central component to the study of and promotion of healthy places. Previous findings suggest that nature contact influences health via stress appraisal process. Currently, there are no known comprehensive valid and reliable measures of nature contact, which presents obstacles to research and worksite health promotion. Objective: This study was designed to develop and test …an instrument to measure nature contact at work, entitled the Nature Contact Questionnaire (NCQ), 16-item self-reported checklist to measure actual exposure. Participants: A sample of 503 (30% response rate) office staff completed the questionnaire. Methods: Office staff were sent an email with a link to the electronic survey twice, two weeks apart. Results: Content and construct validity (KMO=0.68), internal consistency (Alpha=0.64), and test-retest reliability (r=0.85, p< 0.01) were established. Conclusions: The NCQ is the first known comprehensive, reliable and valid survey to measure nature contact, which allows research to compare forms of nature contact to best inform practice and design of healthy places. Show more

Keywords: Employee stress, healthy places, work environment, nature contact, worksite health promotion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1253

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 411-423, 2011

Authors: Marchand, Alain | Blanc, Marie-Ève

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: The contribution of occupation and work organisation conditions to the development of chronic psychological distress in the Canadian workforce was examined. Participants: Longitudinal data came from the first five cycles (Cycle 1=1994–1995, Cycle 5=2002–2003) of Statistics Canada's National Population Health Survey. A sample of 5,500 workers nested in 1,300 neighbourhoods and aged 15 to 55 years. Methods: Data had a hierarchical structure and were analysed using multilevel logistic regression models. …Results: The results showed 46.4% of workers reported one episode of psychological distress, 23.5% more than one, and 10.6% three or more. Psychological distress decreased over time and varied significantly between individuals and neighbourhoods. Occupation was not significant, but psychological demands, job insecurity, and social support in the workplace were important determinants. The results showed strong contributions of individual and outside work factors (family, social support, neighbourhood). Conclusions: Research in occupational mental health must expand theoretical and empirical frameworks in order to capture actual workplace dynamics and the effects on workers' mental health. Interventions designed to reduce mental health problems should carefully evaluate not only the work environment itself, but also non-work factors and other individual characteristics. Show more

Keywords: Psychological, distress/chronicity/longitudinal, study/occupation/work, organisation, conditions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1254

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 425-435, 2011

Authors: Heijstra, Thamar M. | Rafnsd\'ottir, Gudbjörg Linda | Jónsdóttir, Lilja Sigrún

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the level of autonomy of Nordic hospital physicians, to examine whether there is a noticeable gender difference, and to evaluate the relation between autonomy and the well-being of these professionals. Participants: This quantitative study is based on 1697 questionnaires that were filled out by hospital physicians in Sweden, Norway and Iceland. Methods: The quantitative data are analysed statistically. Student's independent sample T-test is used to identify significant …gender differences between the means of the variables autonomy and well-being. The Chi-Square test of independence is used to obtain information on the relation between autonomy and the well-being of male and female physicians. Results: Nordic male physicians enjoy significantly more autonomy than their female colleagues but the average level of autonomy is not very high for either of the genders. Autonomy turns out to have a significant positive effect on the well-being of both male and female hospital physicians, but the effect is stronger among women. Conclusion: Even though the recent economical crisis makes cutbacks in the health care system necessary, it is important to avoid drastic reorganizations which are aimed at improved efficiency, but threaten the autonomy and well-being of hospital physicians. Show more

Keywords: Managed care, professionals, reorganization, strain, work conditions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1255

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 437-443, 2011

Authors: Schapmire, Darrell W. | St. James, James D. | Townsend, Robert | Feeler, Larry

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: The objective was to determine if visual estimation of effort (VEE) during lifting tasks is accurate in classifying relative levels of exertion or distinguishing between incomplete lifts that may be potentially unsafe and incomplete lifts of "actors" feigning weakness. Participants: A convenience sample of 117 health professionals and lay subjects participated in the study. Methods: Four actors were videoed performing four complete dynamic lifts (sets of five repetitions) of varying levels …of exertion (relative to subjects' physical maximum). Subjects viewed the videoed performances, presented in no apparent order, attempting to properly classify the lifting tasks. For the four levels of exertion, participants were to judge if the lifts were 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of each actor's maximum lifting capacity and to distinguish between an incomplete (failed) lift of 110% of maximum and a feigned failure of a lift of 25% of maximum. Results: Accuracy for in classifying all lifting activities was marginally higher than chance. There were no differences in the accuracy of health professionals or lay subjects. Conclusion: The VEE does not accurately classify relative levels of exertion or distinguish between incomplete feigned effort lifts and lifts that are potentially too heavy to safely lift. Show more

Keywords: Psychophysical, kinesiophysical, lifting evaluation, functional capacity evaluation (FCE)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1256

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 445-457, 2011

Authors: Tarride, J.E. | Harrington, K. | Balfour, R. | Simpson, P. | Foord, L. | Anderson, L. | Lakey, W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the My Health Matters! (MHM) program, a multifaceted workplace intervention relying on education and awareness, early detection and disease management with a focus on risk factors for metabolic syndrome. Participants: The MHM program was offered to 2,000 public servants working in more than 30 worksites in British Columbia, Canada. Methods: The MHM program included a health risk assessment combined with an opportunity to attend an on-site screening and face-to-face call back visits …and related on-site educational programs. Clinical and economic outcomes were collected over time in this one-year prospective study coupled with administrative and survey data. Results: Forty three per cent of employees (N=857) completed the online HRA and 23 per cent (N=447) attended the initial clinical visit with the nurse. Risk factors for metabolic syndrome were identified in more than half of those attending the clinical visit. The number of risk factors significantly decreased by 15 per cent over six months (N=141). The cost per employee completing the HRA was $205 while the cost per employee attending the initial clinical visit was $394. Eighty-two per cent of employees would recommend the program to other employers. Conclusions: This study supports that workplace interventions are feasible, sustainable and valued by employees. As such, this study provides a new framework for implementing and evaluating workplace interventions focussing on metabolic disorders. Show more

Keywords: Workplace intervention, metabolic syndrome, employee satisfaction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1257

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 459-471, 2011

Authors: Thompson, Warren G. | Levine, James A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: Time spent sitting increases all-cause mortality. Sedentary occupations are a major contributor to the obesity epidemic. A treadmill desk offers the potential to increase activity while working; however, it is important to make sure that productivity does not decline. The purpose of this study is to evaluate productivity …while using a treadmill desk. Participants: Eleven experienced medical transcriptionists participated in the study. Methods: Transcriptionists were given 4 hours training in the use of a treadmill desk. They were asked to transcribe tapes for 8 hours both while sitting and while using the treadmill desk. Speed and accuracy of transcription were compared as were the average expended calories per hour. Results: The accuracy of transcription did not differ between sitting and walking transcriptions. The speed of transcription was 16% slower while walking than while sitting (p < 0.001). The transcriptionists expended 100 calories per hour more when they transcribed while walking than when they transcribed while sitting (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The treadmill desk offers a way to reduce sedentariness in the workplace and has potential to reduce employee obesity and health care costs. However, more than 4 hours of training will be necessary to prevent a significant drop in employee productivity. Show more

Keywords: Obesity, sedentariness, physical activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1258

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 473-477, 2011

Authors: Tremblay, Carol Horton

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Objective: This research seeks to identify job characteristics and workplace policies conducive to the job success of individuals with bipolar disorder, and to examine the interactions between employers and bipolar employees regarding requested workplace accommodations. Participants: The study population consists of 39 adults who were in outpatient care and diagnosed with bipolar I or II disorder. Methods: Each participant completed a mail-in questionnaire regarding workplace characteristics that would enhance job performance. …Results: Primary beneficial work characteristics reported are schedule flexibility, autonomy, and supervisor willingness to provide accommodations. Specific helpful characteristics noted by participants include allowances for working at home, leaves of absence, frequent breaks, barriers between work spaces, control over goal-setting, creativity, and avoidance of jobs with pace set by machinery. Twelve of the 26 workers requested workplace changes, and of the 12 requests, 10 were implemented. Incidents of employer bias were reported. Conclusion: The experiences of the survey participants regarding beneficial workplace accommodations may help to improve the productivity and well-being of other individuals with bipolar disorder. Show more

Keywords: Disability, occupation, employment, bipolar disorder

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1259

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 479-487, 2011

Authors: Marval, Rebecca

Article Type: Research Article

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2011-1260

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 489-493, 2011

Article Type: Research Article

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 495-498, 2011

Article Type: Research Article

Citation: Work, vol. 40, no. 4, pp. 499-501, 2011