Work - Volume 41, issue Supplement 1

Authors: Vitório, Daiana Martins | Masculo, Francisco Soares | Melo, Miguel O.B.C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Electrical systems can be categorized as critical systems where failure can result in significant financial loss, injury or threats to human life. The operators of the electric power control centers perform an activity in a specialized environment and have to carry it out by mobilizing knowledge and reasoning to which they have adequate training under the terms of the existing rules. To reach this there is a common mental request of personnel involved in these centers due the need to maintain attention, memory and reasoning request. In this sense, this study aims to evaluate the Mental Workload of technical workers …of the Control Centers of Electrical Energy. It was undertaken a research on operators control centers of the electricity sector in Northeast Brazil. It was used for systematic observations, followed by interview and application of the instrument National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index known as NASA-TLX. As a result there will be subsidies for an assessment of mental workload of operators, and a contribution to improving the processes of managing the operation of electric utilities and the quality of workers. Show more

Keywords: ergonomics, electric control centers, fatigue, mental workload

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0531-2831

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2831-2839, 2012

Authors: Alm, Håkan | Osvalder, Anna-Lisa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to make a review of studies concerning problems with alarm systems and to make a theoretical analysis of these problems. The aim is also to show some general design ideas to improve alarm presentation in process descriptions. Using research results from situation awareness and decision making a number of suggestions for further development of alarm systems are presented. Recommendations include providing operators of complex systems feedback that can support their mental models and situational awareness. Furthermore a recommendation is to design alarm systems that can learn from experience.

Keywords: Alarm systems, dynamic decision making, process control, complex systems

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0532-2840

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2840-2844, 2012

Authors: Pikaar, Ruud N.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Process operators supervise and control complex processes. To enable the operator to do an adequate job, instrumentation and process control engineers need to address several related topics, such as console design, information design, navigation, and alarm management. In process control upgrade projects, usually a 1:1 conversion of existing graphics is proposed. This paper suggests another approach, efficiently leading to a reduced number of new powerful process graphics, supported by a permanent process overview displays. In addition a road map for structuring content (process information) and conventions for the presentation of objects, symbols, and so on, has been developed. The impact …of the human factors engineering approach on process control upgrade projects is illustrated by several cases. Show more

Keywords: Process control, power graphic, permanent overview display

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0533-2845

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2845-2852, 2012

Authors: Hsieh, Min-Han | Hwang, Sheue-Ling | Liu, Kang-Hong | Liang, Sheau-Farn Max | Chuang, Chang-Fu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The study was conducted from the perspective of human factors engineering in order to compare the process that operators originally used to diagnose potential and actual faults with a process that included an expert system for diagnosing faults. The results of the study indicated that the existence of an expert system for fault diagnosis makes the task of fault diagnosis easier and reduces errors by quickly suggesting likely Abnormal Operating Procedures (AOPs)

Keywords: Nuclear Power Plant, Fault diagnosis, Expert system

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0534-2853

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2853-2858, 2012

Authors: Bligård, L.-O. | Andersson, J. | Osvalder, A.-L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In a thermal power plant the operators’ roles are to control and monitor the process to achieve efficient and safe production. To achieve this, the human-machine interfaces have a central part. The interfaces need to be updated and upgraded together with the technical functionality to maintain optimal operation. One way of achieving relevant updates is to study other domains and see how they have solved similar issues in their design solutions. The purpose of this paper is to present how interface design solution ideas can be transferred from domains with operator control to thermal power plants. In the study 15 …domains were compared using a model for categorisation of human-machine systems. The result from the domain comparison showed that nuclear power, refinery and ship engine control were most similar to thermal power control. From the findings a basic interface structure and three specific display solutions were proposed for thermal power control: process parameter overview, plant overview, and feed water view. The systematic comparison of the properties of a human-machine system allowed interface designers to find suitable objects, structures and navigation logics in a range of domains that could be transferred to the thermal power domain. Show more

Keywords: Thermal power plant, human-machine system, human-machine interface, graphical user interface

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0535-2859

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2859-2865, 2012

Authors: Wang, Lingyan | Lau, Henry Y.K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: It is a well recognized understanding that workers whose voice needs to be heard should be actively encouraged as full participants and involved in the early design stages of new ergonomic work system which encompass the development and implementation of new tools, workplaces, technologies or organizations. This paper presents a novel participatory strategy to evaluate three key psychological factors which are respectively mental fatigue, spiritual stress, and emotional satisfaction in work system design based on a modified version of Participatory Ergonomics (PE). In specific, it integrates a PE technique with a formulation view by combining the parallel development of PE …strategies, frameworks and functions throughout the coverage of the entire work system design process, so as to bridge the gap between qualitative and quantitative analysis of psychological factors which can cause adverse or advantageous effects on worker’s physiological and behavioral performance. Show more

Keywords: Participatory ergonomics, psychological factors, work system design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0658-2866

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2866-2871, 2012

Authors: Sharan, Deepak | Ajeesh, P.S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: ‘Workstyle’ can be described as a mechanism by which ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors interact to affect the development, exacerbation and/or maintenance of upper limb pain and functional limitations. Workstyle is associated with the increase in the work demand. In today’s life use of computer in the workplace is very common and it causes to increase the work demand among the workers who are working with computer. As work demand increase, according to the characteristic of workstyle, risk of the development of musculoskeletal disorders also increased. This study aimed at to findout the association between ergonomics risk factors, workstyle and …WRMSD. Two hundred IT professionals participated in this study. Result revealed that most prevalenet body regions were lower back (20%), Upper back (16%) and shoulder (14%). Study result says that there is a positive association between workstyle score with musculoskeletal pain (r=0.85). Also it revealed that posture and regional pain is associated (r=0.62), per day use of computer and musculoskeletal pain (r=0.46), micro breaks and pain (r=0.87) and productivity and the pain (r=0.95). This study further validates these observations and extends support for the assessment of working postures and workstyle behaviors during the design of WMSD treatment. Show more

Keywords: workstation information, working posture information, workstyle questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0536-2872

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2872-2875, 2012

Authors: Buzanello, Márcia Rosângela | Moro, Antônio Renato Pereira

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The cold environment is an indispensable for slaughtering and processing in the poultry industry In field studies it was observed that a large percentage of workers of this sector have hand contact with the cold chicken and / or frozen, have high complaints prevalence of pain and discomfort, mostly in the hands. The contact of human skin with a cold surface may cause pain, numbness and risk of skin damage. Currently, although the use of infrared thermal imaging has been useful in identifying normal and abnormal patterns of heat distribution on the surface of the body. However your use for …work tasks and to assess the potential development of injuries related to it has been limited. Based on the physiological responses can be objectively evaluate the effects of the task demands of work and thus contribute to the development of effective strategies for ergonomic intervention. The methodology will be used to evaluate the subjective thermal sensation with analogue scale of ASHRAE and the infrared thermography in the dorsal and palmar hands. Thus the objective of this research is to propose reference values for thermographic hands within limits of comfort. Show more

Keywords: Artificial cold, Ergonomic, Infrared thermography

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0537-2876

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2876-2881, 2012

Authors: Gorunova, L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The paper deals with the application of the activity theory in describing psychological determinants of the information searching activity. The notions of information behavior, information retrieval, information competence, information retrieval activity given in Russian and English scientific literature are compared. The research approach to the information retrieval activity based on the principles developed in the Russian theory of activity is described; and the fundamentals of G. Sukhodolsky’s generalized conception of activity are presented for the first time. Analysis of empirical researches showed that specific features of information search depend on how the user evaluates information resources, information, conditions and results …of search. Psychological determiners of information search may be detected as the system of evaluative alternatives, which is generated by the user during the process of his experience growth. We discovered that user’s evaluation system is also related to his individual typological and personal regulative features and determines the choice of the search strategy. Show more

Keywords: Information searching, activity theory, subjective representation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0538-2882

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2882-2886, 2012

Authors: Diniz, Thiago Bernardes | Silva-Costa, Aline | Griep, Rosane Harter | Rotenberg, Lúcia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: We aimed at analyzing whether Minor Psychiatric Disorders (MPD) is associated to night work either currently or in the past. A cross-sectional study was conducted at three public hospitals in Brazil, with female nursing workers. Data collection (N=1,134) was based on a comprehensive questionnaire that included the self-reported questionnaire (SRQ-20) for screening of MPD. Former night workers were subdivided into three groups according to their reasons for leaving night work: (i) directly related to work, (ii) related to better reconcile with studies or another job, and (iii) related to health, sleep, fatigue or stress. Binomial logistic regression was performed, with …adjustment for potential confounders. A dose response gradient was observed between current night work and MPD (OR=1.5; 95% CI: 1.1–2.2 and OR=2.1; 95%CI: 1.5–3.1 for those who worked up to five nights and six or more nights per 2-week span, respectively). Potential detrimental effects of night work were confirmed. The association between working at night and MPD was not restricted to current night workers as workers who left night work for health/fatigue/sleep/strain also showed higher chances of reporting MPD (OR=1.8;95%CI:1.14-2.90). Results contribute to the scientific debate on the impact of night work on health and wellbeing. Show more

Keywords: Night Work, Mental Health, Nursing, Work Organization, SQR-20

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0539-2887

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2887-2892, 2012

Authors: Evstigneeva, Maria | Aleksandrov, Aleksandr | Mathiassen, Svend Erik | Lyskov, Eugene

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Performance of certain cognitive tasks either during physical load or in rest pauses between boosts might lead to slowing of muscle fatigue and fatigue related decline in performance. Seventeen right-handed healthy volunteers (age 24±1.4, 8 males) participated in this study, aiming to investigate the effect of the level of the cognitive information processing – 1) passive perception of audio stimuli, 2) active stimuli discrimination, 3) active stimuli discrimination following motor response - on motor task performance (handgrip test 30% and 7% of MVC) and muscle fatigue development. Cognitive tasks show the following effects on motor work: i) Perceived fatigue during …30 % MVC (fatiguing) condition developed slower if participant pressed button in response to deviant acoustic stimuli, as compared to passive listening. Counting task, an active task without motor component, took the intermediate position and did not differ significantly from two other cognitive tasks. ii) MVC after 30% MVC (fatiguing) condition tended to decrease stronger when accompanied with passive listening in comparison with both active tasks. iii) Motor task performance during 30% MVC (fatiguing) condition was better for active cognitive task with motor component than for passive task. Active task without motor component took the intermediate position and did not differ significantly from both the other cognitive tasks. Show more

Keywords: Handgrip test, dual task paradigm, cognitive information processing, central fatigue

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0540-2893

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2893-2896, 2012

Authors: Mehta, Ranjana K. | Agnew, Michael J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Mental demands have been associated with increased risk of injuries; however, its influence on muscle fatigability remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the interaction of mental workload and physical workload on muscle fatigability during repetitive shoulder work. Twelve young participants, balanced by gender, performed shoulder abduction exercises until exhaustions at three levels of physical workload (low (5% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC)), moderate (35% MVC), and high (55% MVC)) in the absence and presence of a mental arithmetic test. Endurance time and rate of strength decline were employed as indicators of muscle fatigue. Concurrent physical and mental …processing was found to adversely decrease muscle endurance by ~25% at the moderate intensity level. Furthermore, concurrent demands were associated with faster rate of strength decline compared to the control, irrespective of the physical intensity level. Findings from the current study provide evidence of the adverse effects of mental workload on muscle capacity (i.e., endurance and fatigue). It is therefore important to consider potential changes in worker capacity with concurrent physical and cognitive demands before designing work tasks/products. Show more

Keywords: physical workload, mental workload, fatigue, endurance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0541-2897

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2897-2901, 2012

Authors: Bruno, Thiers | Abrahão, Julia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study examines the actions taken by operators aimed at preventing and combating information security incidents at a banking organization. The work utilizes the theoretical framework of ergonomics and cognitive psychology. The method is workplace ergonomic analysis. Its focus is directed towards examining the cognitive dimension of the work environment with special attention to the occurrence of correlations between variability in incident frequency and the results of sign detection actions. It categorizes 45,142 operator decisions according to the theory of signal detection (Sternberg, 2000). It analyzes the correlation between incident proportions (indirectly associated with the cognitive efforts demanded from the …operator) and operator decisions. The study demonstrated the existence of a positive correlation between incident proportions and false positive decisions (false alarms). However, this correlation could not be observed in relation to decisions of the falsenegative type (incorrect rejection). Show more

Keywords: Cognitive ergonomics, Information security, Signal detection, Alarms, Rejections

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0542-2902

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2902-2907, 2012

Authors: Santana, Ângela Maria C. | Gomes, Josiane Keila V. | De Marchi, Dione | Girondoli, Yassana M. | de Lima Rosado, Lina E.F.P. | Rosado, Gilberto Paixão | de Andrade, Isabel Maria

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between stress, working conditions and the nutritional status of 53 military police officers in a Southeast city of Brazil. In order to evaluate the symptomatology and the stress phase, the Inventory of Stress Symptoms Lipp for Adults – ISSL was utilized. The assessment of the working conditions was performed by means of socio-demographic questionnaire, direct observation and interviews. The nutritional and health conditions were assessed through anthropometric measures, biochemical tests, blood pressure measurements and cardiovascular disease risk calculator. The sample is of the male gender (92.5%) and aging below 40 years old (73.6%). …From these, 35.8% showed stress and 68.4% were in the resistance phase, with 31.6% almost burned out. Through the calculation of Chi-square we could find positive association between the BMI and tiredness (P = 0.0188), between the BMI and irritation (P = 0.0005) and the BMI and the appearance of nervous system problems or emotional problems (P = 0.0304), indicating that these statuses or problems could be related to work. We can conclude then, the stress is present among military police officers. No case of critical stress was found, and the stress phases identified are still susceptible to intervention. Show more

Keywords: Psychological stress, Working conditions, Police, Nutritional status

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0543-2908

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2908-2914, 2012

Authors: Laugaland, Kristin | Aase, Karina | Barach, Paul

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: When a patient’s transition from the hospital to home is less than optimal, the repercussions can be far-reaching – hospital readmission, adverse medical events, and even mortality. Elderly, especially frail older patients with complex health care problems appear to be a group particularly at risk for adverse events in general, and during transitions across health providers in particular. We undertook a systematic review to identify interventions designed to improve patient safety during transitional care of the elderly, with a particular focus on discharge interventions. We searched the literature for qualitative and quantitative studies on the subject published over the past …ten years. The review revealed a set of potential intervention types aimed at the improvement of communication that contribute to safe transitional care. Intervention types included professionoriented interventions (e.g. education and training), organisational/culture interventions (e.g. transfer nurse, discharge protocol, discharge planning, medication reconciliation, standardized discharge letter, electronic tools), or patient and next of kin oriented interventions (e.g. patient awareness and empowerment, discharge support). Results strongly indicate that elderly discharged from hospital to the community will benefit from targeted interventions aimed to improve transfer across healthcare settings. Future interventions should take into account multi-component and multi-disciplinary interventions incorporating several single interventions combined. Show more

Keywords: Transitional care, elderly, patient safety, adverse events, interventions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0544-2915

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2915-2924, 2012

Authors: Meyer, Travis S. | Muething, Joseph Z. | Lima, Gustavo Amoras Souza | Torres, Breno Raemy Rangel | del Rosario, Trystyn Keia | Gomes, José Orlando | Lambert, James H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Radiological nuclear emergency responders must be able to coordinate evacuation and relief efforts following the release of radioactive material into populated areas. In order to respond quickly and effectively to a nuclear emergency, highlevel coordination is needed between a number of large, independent organizations, including police, military, hazmat, and transportation authorities. Given the complexity, scale, time-pressure, and potential negative consequences inherent in radiological emergency responses, tracking and communicating information that will assist decision makers during a crisis is crucial. The emergency response team at the Angra dos Reis nuclear power facility, located outside of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, presently conducts …emergency response simulations once every two years to prepare organizational leaders for real-life emergency situations. However, current exercises are conducted without the aid of electronic or software tools, resulting in possible cognitive overload and delays in decision-making. This paper describes the development of a decision support system employing systems methodologies, including cognitive task analysis and human-machine interface design. The decision support system can aid the coordination team by automating cognitive functions and improving information sharing. A prototype of the design will be evaluated by plant officials in Brazil and incorporated to a future trial run of a response simulation. Show more

Keywords: Preparedness, disaster, human factors, organizational behavior, risk management, cognitive engineering

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0659-2925

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2925-2932, 2012

Authors: Melles, M. | Freudenthal, A. | de Ridder, H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study investigates how future informatics applications can support and challenge intensive care nurses (ICU nurses) to grow and learn continuously. To this end a research-and-design tool is introduced which is based on a model of the nursing process that starts from the idea that a nurse fulfills three different roles: the role of practitioner (using information immediately to base actions upon), the role of scholar (using information later on to learn from) and the role of human (coping with stress and dealing with emotions). In this paper the focus is on the scholar role. Twenty-eight intensive care staff members …from six different hospitals were asked to recount an imposing experience from the perspective of each role. Regarding the scholar role, the participants mentioned 77 learning strategies they adopt for individual as well as organizational learning. Individual learning concerned reflection on former patient cases, reflection on current patient cases to anticipate a change in the patient’s condition and reflection on personal behavior and decisions. Organizational learning concerned reflection on former patient cases. Examples of specific strategies were formal team evaluations focused on procedure and understanding the perspective of team members, being present at autopsies, and giving feedback on the nursing skills of colleagues. Based on these strategies design implications are defined for future nursing informatics applications, which will be presented. Show more

Keywords: intensive care nursing, learning, design, nursing informatics application

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0545-2933

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2933-2940, 2012

Authors: Toccafondi, Giulio | Albolino, Sara | Bellandi, Tommaso | Venneri, Francesco

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Patient safety practices for enhancing the quality and safety of handover are context sensitive interventions. In this article we explore the use of cultural probes as a qualitative technique with a twofold objective: eliciting implicit activity pattern and tools that may constitute resources for the design of effective handover solutions and prompting health care practitioners’ participation and involvement.

Keywords: handover, human factors, design, participation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0660-2941

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2941-2945, 2012

Authors: Moreira, Helenara Salvati Bertolossi | Talini, Bruna | Galvão, Isabele Maia | Vilagra, José Mohamud | Leivas, Eduardo Gallas | de Oliveira Júnior, Abel Santos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: To be distinguished from other companies, organizations are searching norms of certifications, such as ISO 9001, OHSAS 18001 and BS 8.800 to become more competitive in the work market, offering health and safety to the worker and quality to the customer. This extends the performance field of the Physiotherapist, who can use their knowledge to favor the processes of implementation of these certifications. The present work aims to identify the performance of the Physiotherapist in such processes of certification, as well as to verify their knowledge concerning the norms of certification and the performance in the occupational environment. Methodology: The …population was constituted by the physiotherapists who had participated at the 4° FISIOTRAB, the sample was composed by 30 physiotherapists, a questionnaire with pertinent questions to the study was applied. Results: 34% of the interviewed did not know what OHSAS 18001 and ISO 14001 were, 66% did not know about the BS 8,800 certification. 76% of the interviewed had never participated in the implementation of certification norms; among those who had participated 28% were present during the implementation of ISO 9001, 57% at the implementation of OHSAS 18001 and 15% at that of both OHSAS and ISO 14001 together. Given that, from the 24% that had already acted in such implementations, 70% possess a specific formation in Occupational Physiotherapy. Conclusion: It was verified that the least part of physiotherapists have acted during the implementation of certification norms, and that even when they work in the Occupational Physiotherapy field many do not possess a deep knowledge on the different practical performances. Show more

Keywords: Occupational Physiotherapy, Certification in Quality, Certification in Security and Health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1033-2946

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2946-2949, 2012

Authors: Boscolo, Paolo | Forcella, Laura | Reale, Marcella | Vianale, Giovina | Battisti, Uliano | Bonfiglioli, Roberta | Cortini, Michela | Di Giampaolo, Luca | Di Donato, Angela | Salerno, Silvana

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The immune system, in cooperation with neuroendocrine functions, defends from cancer and infections mainly by the activity of blood natural killer (NK) cells. Blood NK activity may be influenced by the type of employment since work is the central part of life; moreover, job stress is a situation affecting both neuroendocrine and immune systems. This study examines anxiety (by STAI 1 and 2), job strain (by the Karasek’s JCQ) and blood NK activity (by an in vitro radio-isotopic method) of 134 male workers. These men, over 38 years old with stable employment, were working in factories, in construction yards, in …offices, as hospital attendants or as self-employed craftsmen. Workers in factories and in construction yards, with high job strain, showed lower NK activity, while office employees, with low job demand, and craftsmen with low anxiety and elevated decision latitude, showed higher NK activity; the level of NK activity of the hospital attendants was between the other groups. In conclusion, this study confirms that the type of employment, related to job stress, affects blood NK activity. Moreover, blood NK activity may be used in the bio-monitoring of workers at high risk. Show more

Keywords: occupational stress, anxiety, NK activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0546-2950

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2950-2954, 2012

Authors: Adaramola, Samson Sunday

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Abstract This paper examines mental and physical pressures that workers bear at work. The authors discuss how onthe-job stress affects a person’s capabilities and productivity, and how such pressures lend to higher incidences of accidents at work. The paper also discuses methods of reducing job-related stress and increasing productivity. An intervention was conducted amongst workers in a private firm. It shows mental and emotional pressure can affect performance and productivity of a worker on the job. One of the biggest influences of today’s worker is onthe-job stress. Job stress occurs when the requirements of the job do not match …the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker. This consequently affects how a person would normally deal with customer service problems, grievances, violence, conflict, and decisions on the job. Stress is an inevitable part of everyday life, and is therefore a distinct part of a person’s job. To properly control the outcome of stress, there are certain precautions and methods that should be taken that will boost productivity Show more

Keywords: “Illness”, “Pressure”, “Intervention” “Performance”

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0547-2955

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2955-2958, 2012

Authors: Castro, M | Araujo, L

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Introduction: At the same time that there are increased demands we have become more sedentary, increasing risk factors for new diseases. All this reflects on our quality of life with special emphasis upon a particular syndrome called Burnout. Aviation is no exception and packed into its processes each day more expeditious, promotes a perfect environment for the development and spread of the syndrome. Aim: To evaluate the quality of life, organizational climate, and the level of physical activity among employees of a Brazilian airline. Methods: A cross-sectional design was conducted with 8 subjects. Results: Total score on the WHOQOL quality …of life questionnaire was 64.7 (SD 10.8), and the environmental field showed the lowest score. Nevertheless, the sedentary risk factor was performed in 25% of the sample. About the organizational climate, it can be seen that 6.12% of the sample was framed in “Professional Exhaustive”, 29.60% in the condition of “Warning”, and 64.37% in the condition of “Professional Efficiency”. Conclusion: the study found a low quality of life, especially in the environmental category, sedentary people and a large proportion of employees in this Brazilian airline with negative scores on the Organizational Climate. Show more

Keywords: Quality of Life, Organizational Climate, Environmental Work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0548-2959

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2959-2962, 2012

Authors: Padula, Rosimeire Simprini | Chiavegato, Luciana Dias | Cabral, Cristina Maria Nunes | Almeid, Talita | Ortiz, Thais | Carregaro, Rodrigo Luiz

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The occupational stress is associated with dissatisfaction, excessive demand at work and personal factors. Those factors can reduce work performance and can predispose workers to various diseases. Workers’ health may be protected if there is encouragement to face challenges, which may lessen the impact on psychological and somatic stress and thus have greater personal and professional satisfaction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between occupational stress and work engagement. Participated in this study 457 male and female workers of a metallurgical industry. Subjects answered personal data, and the Job Stress Scale and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale …were applied. Results showed an association between occupational stress and work engagement (P=0,001). The way the individual deals with his frustrations, or rather the work engagement, is associated with the occupational stress. Show more

Keywords: Enviroment, Mental Health, Ergonomics, Work engagement, Workplace

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0549-2963

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2963-2965, 2012

Authors: Forcella, Laura | Bonfiglioli, Roberta | Cutilli, Piero | Antonucci, Andrea | Di Donato, Angela | Siciliano, Eugenio | Cortini, Michela | Violante, Francesco Saverio | Boscolo, Paolo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Psychosocial discomfort may amplify job-related risk factors. The aim of this study is to evaluate job stress in a high fashion clothing company with upper limb biomechanical overload due to repetitive and forceful manual activities. Biomechanical risk was analyzed and in part reduced using the OCRA Check list. A total of 518 workers (433 females and 85 males) were investigated to determine anxiety (by STAI 1 and 2), occupational stress (using the Italian version of the Karasek Job Content Questionnaire) and perception of symptoms. Final biomechanical assessment did not reveal high risk jobs, except for cutting. Although the perception of …anxiety and job insecurity was within the normal range, all the workers showed a high level of job strain (correlated with the perception of symptoms) due, probably, to very low decision latitude. It was suggested that job strain may increase the perception of symptoms. Moreover, the result of this study indicates that musculoskeletal overload has to be further analyzed since its low level is not in agreement with the level of discomfort due to the repetitive tasks. Show more

Keywords: occupational stress, anxiety, NK activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0550-2966

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2966-2970, 2012

Authors: Costa, Susana | Arezes, Pedro

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The international standard ISO 9612:2009, regarding the determination of occupational noise exposure through an engineering method, establishes a methodology for evaluating the exposure of workers to occupational noise, through the specification of three different strategies, namely: task-based measurement (TBM); job-based measurement (JBM) and; fullday measurement (FDM). In this work, questions are raised, “resulting in a literature review regarding the need to test the functionality of the three strategies, through the systematic comparison between them and analysis of their application impact at several levels. There is a need to test the compare these three strategies, since there are no peer-review studies …in this domain. In fact, there are still no studies that systematically do the comparison between them and analyze the impact of their application at various levels, such as the precision and accuracy of the results, the required equipment, time spent and, most important, the estimation of the uncertainty associated to the measurements. Show more

Keywords: Acoustics, uncertainty, accuracy, ISO

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0551-2971

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2971-2973, 2012

Authors: Zunjic, Aleksandar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Work in an industrial environment is often associated with high levels of noise. For measuring and evaluating of noise levels, sometimes it is necessary to use several instruments. These instruments can be very expensive and require qualified personnel. Medium and small-sized firms often lack sufficient financial resources to ensure continuous measurement and assessment of noise levels. For this reason, a new SCANAM method for assessing the levels of noise is designed. This method involves the use of cheap and accurate sound level meter and specially designed software for assessing the effects of noise. Application of this method is very simple. …Based on a noise sample in duration of eight hours, the accuracy of the SCANAM method was confirmed. Application of this method is significantly cheaper than an approach based on the use of expensive multi-function devices, or separate devices for measuring and assessing noise at the workplace. Show more

Keywords: SCANAM method, noise, noise assessment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0552-2974

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2974-2981, 2012

Authors: Barkokébas Jr., Béda | Vasconcelos, Bianca M. | Lago, Eliane Maria G. | Alcoforador, Aline Fabiana P

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In the civil construction industry sector, it has been observed that the increasing use of machines has made tasks noisier and consequently caused hearing loss and had other adverse effects on workers. The objective of this study was to identify and assess the physical risks of noise present in activities undertaken in a construction company in order to propose control measures which will contribute to the management of health and safety within the company’s organization. The methodology applied was based on verifying the characteristics of exposure to noise on construction sites, from an observation of sources which generated noise and …making measurements of sound pressure levels emitted by these sources. The data was then analyzed and compared with the recommended performance levels established in control measures. As a result, it was found that some machines and equipment used in civil construction often generate noise above the acceptable levels and as such, in these cases, various control measures have been proposed. It is believed that the use of management techniques is the most effective way to assess risk and to implement the preventive and corrective actions proposed, and allows for the analysis of sound pressure levels on an ongoing basis. Show more

Keywords: Construction, Health and Safety at Work, Noise

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0553-2982

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2982-2990, 2012

Authors: Tokars, Eunice | Moro, Antonio Renato Pereira | Cruz, Roberto Moraes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The working activity in traffic of the big cities complex interacts with the environment is often in unsafe and unhealthy imbalance favoring the binomial work - health. The aim of this paper was to analyze the relationship between work and health of taxi drivers in Curitiba, Brazil. This cross-sectional observational study with 206 individuals used a questionnaire on the organization’s profile and perception of the environment and direct observation of work. It was found that the majority are male, aged between 26 and 49 years and has a high school degree. They are sedentary, like making a journey from 8 …to 12 hours. They consider a stressful profession, related low back pain and are concerned about safety and accidents. 40% are smokers and consume alcoholic drink and 65% do not have or do not use devices of comfort. Risk factors present in the daily taxi constraints cause physical, cognitive and organizational and can affect your performance. It is concluded that the taxi drivers must change the unhealthy lifestyle, requiring a more efficient management of government authorities for this work is healthy and safe for all involved. Show more

Keywords: Work, health, taxi driver, ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0554-2991

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2991-2997, 2012

Authors: Schmidt, Lisa | Sjöström, John | Antonsson, Ann-Beth

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Abstract Occupational health service in Sweden is often described as an important and strategic resource to reduce work-related diseases, improve work ability and successfully assess improvement of the workplace. However, not much research has been done on how OHS contribute to reduced absence due to work-related illness or improvement of the work ability of employees. In our study, the ambition has been to describe how OHS can contribute and give effects in client companies. Fifteen companies considered to be good examples were selected in cooperation with the social partners. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with representatives of the company and …OHS. The results show that efficient collaboration depend strongly on the relationship between the OHS and the company, and were highly correlated with a continuously dialogue and contact. Good occupational safety and health management at company level was a key factor for effective use of OHS. The strategic collaborations also often led to that OHSs contribution was gradually shifted from a reactive or medical focus to a more proactive approach. Several of the interviewed OHSs also held this strategy to work more with prevention, and focusing on “treating the organization”, not the individual, leaving the executive measures to the company. Show more

Keywords: Keyword: Occupational health services, relationship, dialogue, occupational safety and health management, strategic collaborations

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0555-2998

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 2998-3001, 2012

Authors: Kluth, Karsten | Baldus, Sandra | Strasser, Helmut

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The sales figures of chilled and frozen food have been rising steadily over the years. Naturally, this has also led to an increase in the number of jobs related to these goods. While these workplaces are becoming more and more important there are, nevertheless, only a few investigations into the effects of working in deep cold on humans. Order-picking in a cold environment represents a high workload. Especially working at −24°C with wearing heavy cold protective clothing leads to explicitly higher strain. Since performance decreases with age, varying physical strain between younger and older employees can hypothetically be expected. In …order to quantify the physiological responses to working in the cold, 15 subjects of two female age groups, each, (20− to 35-year-olds and 40− to 65-year-olds) were asked to carry out whole working day tasks in a chill room (+3°) and in a cold store (−24°C). Simultaneously, heart rate and other physiological relevant parameters were measured. Show more

Keywords: Field Study, Severe Environmental Conditions, Age-adjusted Strain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0556-3002

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3002-3009, 2012

Authors: Baldus, Sandra | Kluth, Karsten | Strasser, Helmut

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: So far, it was unclear to what extent working in deep cold-storage depots has an influence on female order-pickers body core temperature and skin surface temperature considering different age groups. Physiological effects of order-picking in a chill room (+3°C) and cold store (−24°C) were examined on 30 female subjects (Ss), classified in two age groups (20− to 35− year-olds and 40− to 65-year-olds). The body core temperature was taken every 15 min at the tympanum and the skin surface temperature was recorded continuously at seven different positions. Working in the chill room induced a decrease of the body core temperature …up to 0.5K in comparison to the value at the outset for both age groups which could be compensated by all Ss during the breaks. Working in the cold store caused a decline up to 1.1K for the younger Ss and 1.3K for the older Ss. A complete warming-up during the breaks was often not possible. Regarding the skin surface temperature, working in the chill room can be considered as unproblematic, whereas significantly lower temperatures at nose, fingers and toes, associated with substantial negative subjective sensations, were recorded while working in the cold store. Show more

Keywords: Field Study, Manual Material Handling, Age, Physiology, Severe Environmental Conditions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0557-3010

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3010-3017, 2012

Authors: Reiman, Teemu | Pietikäinen, Elina | Oedewald, Pia | Gotcheva, Nadezhda

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The objective of this paper is to illustrate the development and application of the Design for Integrated Safety Culture (DISC) framework for system modeling by evaluating organizational potential for safety in nuclear and healthcare domains. The DISC framework includes criteria for good safety culture and a description of functions that the organization needs to implement in order to orient the organization toward the criteria. Three case studies will be used to illustrate the utilization of the DISC framework in practice.

Keywords: Safety culture, modeling, system safety, evaluation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0558-3018

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3018-3025, 2012

Authors: Aytaç, Serpil | Dursun, Salih

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Violent incidents in the workplace which negatively affect employees’ health and safety present an important problem of health and safety at work. This study aimed to determine the effects of the violence prevention climate on employees’ job satisfaction and stress by determining how they perceive the dimensions of the violence climate. The participants in this study were 240 employees in various sectors (health, service, etc.) in Turkey. The study used the 18 item Violence Prevention Climate scale developed by Kessler et al (2008) translated into Turkish. The mean age of the participants was 32.3±9.53, mean working years 9.1±8.02. According to …the correlation analysis results, the violence prevention climate dimensions of policies, practices and pressure for unsafe practices were found to have a positive significant relationship with job satisfaction. A significant negative correlation was determined between policies and practices and depression. A significant negative correlation was determined between practices and stress. The stepwise regression analysis results determined a significant relationship between pressure and job satisfaction. The stepwise regression analysis results also determined a significant relationship between the dimension of practices and depression. However, the established regression model was found not to be statistically significant in terms of stress and anxiety dependent variables. Show more

Keywords: Organizational aggression, Job satisfaction, Work related stress, Anxiety and depression

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0559-3026

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3026-3031, 2012

Authors: Lindberg, Per | Vingård, Eva

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to systematically review the scientific literature and search for indicators of healthy work environments. A number of major national and international databases for scientific publication were searched for research addressing indicators of healthy work environments. Altogether 19 768 publications were found. After excluding duplicates, non-relevant publications, or publications that did not comply with the inclusion criteria 24 peer-reviewed publications remained to be included in this systematic review. Only one study explicitly addressing indicators of healthy work environments was found. That study suggested that the presence of stress management programs in an organization might serve …as indicator of a ‘good place to work’, as these organizations were more likely to offer programs that encouraged employee well-being, safety and skill development than those without stress management programs. The other 23 studies either investigated employee´s views of what constitute a healthy workplace or were guidelines for how to create such a workplace. Summarizing, the nine most pronounced factors considered as important for a healthy workplace that emerged from these studies were, in descending order: collaboration/teamwork: growth and development of the individual; recognition; employee involvement; positive, accessible and fair leader; autonomy and empowerment; appropriate staffing; skilled communication; and safe physical work. Show more

Keywords: Healthy work, healthy workplace, healthy organization, guidelines, employee

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0560-3032

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3032-3038, 2012

Authors: Costa, N. | Arezes, P.M. | Melo, R.B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure on professional drivers were predicted using a 45 subjects sample of healthy volunteers from both genders. These volunteers preformed a visual/motor accuracy evaluation test, the ‘omega test’, inside a vehicle (van) under three different WBV exposure conditions, van halted, van performing a circuit on asphalt, and on cobblestone. WBV levels of the stated conditions were statistically different and impairment upon subjects’ performance was found. The statistical significant difference encountered between the subjects performance under the two whole-body vibration profiles (asphalt and cobblestone), seems to indicate that the vibration levels also represent a variable to …be taken under consideration. No gender related difference was found. Show more

Keywords: Whole-body vibration, acuity, aptitude, performance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0561-3039

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3039-3042, 2012

Authors: Wiig, Siri | Tharaldsen, Jorunn Elise

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The role of trust has been argued to play an increasingly important role in modern, complex, and ambivalent risk societies. Trust within organizational research is anticipated to have a general strategic impact on aspects such as organizational performance, communication and knowledge exchange, and learning from accidents. Trust is also an important aspect related to regulation of risk. Diverse regulatory regimes, their contexts and risks influence regulators use of trust and distrust in regulatory practice. The aim of this paper is to discuss the relationship between risk regulation and trust across diverse risk regulation regimes. By drawing from studies of risk …regulation, risk perception, and trust the purpose is to discuss how regulation and trust are linked and used in practice to control risk across system levels in socio-technical systems in high risk industries. This paper provides new knowledge on 1) how functional and dysfunctional trust and distrust are grounded in the empirical realities of high risk industries, 2) how different perspectives on trust and distrust act together and bring new knowledge on how society control risk. Show more

Keywords: trust, distrust, risk, regulation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0562-3043

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3043-3050, 2012

Authors: Benchekroun, Tahar Hakim | Pierlot, Sandrine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Our world of industry and technology has, over the years, has seen undeniable successes in terms of safety and reliability. But major catastrophes and dramatic accidents continue, even today, to cause major human and material losses and to threaten the environment with pollution on a massive scale. Could these disasters and these accidents have been foreseen and avoided? Would it have been possible to anticipate their occurrence by detecting signals of potential hazards? It is unsettling to notice, through retrospective analysis of such events, that warnings had been issued long before the catastrophe or accident took place. This raises several …questions, which we will attempt to address in this paper. Why are whistleblowers often not listened to, threatened, or simply ignored? Why are their warnings viewed as “bad omens” instead of essential resources to ensure safety? Do whistleblowers stand idly by, or do they implement individual and collective strategies to make themselves heard? Which managerial and organizational conditions are conducive to developing empowerment in whistleblowers? Based on four case studies, we attempt to address these questions, and offer a first level of analysis and explanation by proposing and defining two new concepts: operative resilience and strategic resilience. Show more

Keywords: Whistleblowers, operative resilience, strategic resilience, risks

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0563-3051

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3051-3061, 2012

Authors: Nunes, Isabel L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Subcontracting of specialized functions to external companies (e.g. cleaning or maintenance) is actually very common within several industries. These external companies’ are called contractors and their contracting is often designated as outsourcing. Frequently contractors involve other companies (the sub-contractors) to assist them in fulfilling the contract, resulting in a complex chain of organizations focused on interchange of work - the contracting chain. Therefore in the same work site can coexist workers form the client-company and workers from the contractors and/or subcontractors. Since contractors perform their job in client’s facilities, they can be exposed to hazards that are unknown to them. …On other hand, workers of the client company can also be exposed to hazardous situations derived from the work performed by the contractors. The paper discusses how adequate occupational safety and health conditions can be assured when dealing with this kind of dynamic labor networks. Two case-studies and several examples coming from international literature will be presented. Show more

Keywords: Supply Chain, Outsourcing, Contractor workers, Occupational Safety and Health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0564-3062

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3062-3068, 2012

Authors: Wachs, Priscila | Righi, Angela Weber | Saurin, Tarcisio Abreu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Training in non-technical skills (NTS) does not usually question the design of the work system, and thus focuses narrowly on workers as the unit of analysis. This study discusses how the identification of NTS, a major step for developing an NTS training program, might be re-interpreted from the perspective of resilience engineering (RE). This discussion is based on a case study of identifying NTS for electricians who perform emergency maintenance activities in an electricity distribution power line. The results of the case study point out that four data analysis procedures might operationalize the RE perspective: (a) identifying factors that make …the work difficult and which could be integrated into NTS training scenarios; (b) identifying recommendations for re-designing the system, in order either to reduce or eliminate the need for NTS; (c) classifying the NTS into pragmatic categories, which are meaningful for workers; and (d) regarding the identification of NTS as an opportunity to give visibility to adaptations carried out by workers. Show more

Keywords: Non-technical skills, resilience engineering, safety at work, electricians

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0565-3069

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3069-3076, 2012

Authors: da Silva, Vania Eugênia | Mafra, Simone Caldas Tavares | Mafra, Cláudio Lísias | de Souza, Amaury Paulo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study looked for to lift information regarding laundries inserted in industries of animal products origin, to understand the activities developed in the section and to structure a Manual of Planning and Technical Information for laundries to industries of animal products origin, with the intention of subsidizing the planning, structuring and control of this work place, because norms or regulations that supervise don’t exist or aid their managers and workers as for the operation of this work place.

Keywords: Laundries to industries of animal products origin, Manual, Orientations and technical information

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0566-3077

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3077-3084, 2012

Authors: Mafra, Simone Caldas Tavares | da Silva, Vania Eugênia | de Oliveira, Luciana Aparecida

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The crib is the infantile furniture more mentioned in infantile accidents. In spite of the existence of several models, many of them are not appropriate to their users and considered insecure. The objective of this study was to structure the prototype of ERGOBERÇO®, considering technical norms and evaluation in loco of the prototype through structured interview answered by the participants of the research. The prototype was evaluated as safer, resistant and comfortable than the crib used by the mothers and participant users of the study. The aspects with larger acceptance index were the movable grating and the compact base, defined …for the users as facilitators of the use and attribute of safety of the prototype. Even the prototype having been very appraised and accept for the users, it will be necessary to restructure the prototype so that the same can still be adapted more the users’ needs, being, besides insurance and comfortable, with compatible aesthetic pattern with the expectation of these. Show more

Keywords: Product ergonomics, Children’s Furniture, Cribs, Security, Comfort

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0567-3085

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3085-3092, 2012

Authors: Chen, Yung-Ching | Leung, Cherng-Yee

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper utilized a user-centered design approach as the foundation for technology in dementia care in order to improve the quality of telemedicine service. A status-quo analysis and questionnaire survey were conducted to explore the actual needs of the elders in using the lost seeking devices and the problems they encountered. In total, 37 caregivers for people with dementia were surveyed (20 female, 17 male, M = 50.08, SD = 15.47). The dementia-patients: 16 are male, 21 female (M = 72.75, SD = 10.23). Through analysis and induction, 3 problems were identified: poor information transmission, low user acceptance, individual material …security anxiety. 2-4 improvement proposals are suggested for each problem. Most care-givers hope technological products would increase the efficiency and safety, but they also think it’s too expensive and lack of computer skills. This result demonstrates the choice of seeking methods depends on the education level of the caregivers and most of them are elders. The concern of data leakage is also related to today’s fraud issue, which may be the reason limiting the promotion of electronic products and biometrics. Further research is required, suggesting researchers should pursue improvements in lost seeking design devices in dementia for caregivers. Show more

Keywords: care-givers, Dementia, e-Health, Safety, Telemedicine services, User-Centered Design, Wandering

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0568-3093

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3093-3100, 2012

Authors: Morales, Karen Lange | García-Acosta, Gabriel

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Ergonomics has been successful in increasing productivity and comfort in the work arena. It has also contributed to reducing occupational accidents. Despite this, ergonomics is frequently limited to understanding the health-disease process related to human-technology interactions, as this process is more complex than what can be understood from an ergonomic evaluation. Recognising this limit, this work ontologically and epistemologically contrasts the notions of ‘human being’ and ‘social subject’, and concludes that the study object of ergonomics, or human-technology interaction, greatly depends on social aspects that nowadays are not tackled explicitly: route (history), project, structure, agency, motivations and power. It also …analyses how participatory ergonomics tacitly includes many of these aspects, including some implications that the change of notion, from ‘human being’ to ‘social subject’, brings to the understanding of the health-disease process and the reduction of associated risks during human activities. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, Occupational health, Health-disease process, Social subject, Participatory ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0569-3101

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3101-3108, 2012

Authors: Lira, Mario | Kohlman Rabbani, E. | Barkokébas Junior, Beda | Lago, Eliane

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: During the production of aggregates at quarry sites, elevated quantities of micro-particulate mineral dust are produced in all stages of the process. This dust contains appreciable amounts of free crystalline silica in a variety of forms which, if maintained suspended in the air in the work environment, expose the workers to the risk of developing occupational silicosis, which causes reduced ability to work and potential shortening of lifespan. This study was conducted to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate workers’ exposure to mineral dust containing free crystalline silica at a midsized quarry in the Recife metropolitan area, in the State of Pernambuco. …It involved evaluation of the industrial process, collection and analysis of representative dust samples, and interviews with the management team of the company with the intent to assess the compliance of the company with Regulatory Standard (NR) 22 - Occupational safety and health in mining. In order to assist the company in managing risks related to dust exposure, three protocols were developed, implemented and made available, the first based on NR 22, from which the company was also given an economic safety indicator, the second based on the recommendations and requirements of Fundacentro to implement a Respiratory Protection Program and, finally, an assessment protocol with respect to the guidelines of the International Labor Organization to implement a health and safety management system. This study also showed the inadequacy of the formula for calculating tolerance limits in Brazilian legislation when compared with the more strict internationally accepted control parameters. From the laboratory results, unhealthy conditions at the quarry site were confirmed and technical and administrative measures were suggested to reduce and control dust exposure at acceptable levels, such as the implementation of an occupational health and safety management system, integrated with other management systems. From these assessments it is hoped that the proposals can assist the company in developing mechanisms for management and control of dust exposure risks that may improve environmental quality and the well-being of workers. Show more

Keywords: Mining safety, occupational health, chemical hazard, mineral dust, quarry, free crystalline silica

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0570-3109

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3109-3116, 2012

Authors: Maiti, J

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In this paper, the predictors of work injuries based on Leamon’s Man-Machine model are identified in a sociotechnical framework. Several hypotheses are developed and tested to describe the accident/injury phenomena in mining worksystems. Possible designs for improving work-system’s safety are specified using scaled Mahalanobis distance (MD). A case control study design is adopted. Five variables namely, age, negative-affectivity, physical-hazards, job-dissatisfaction, and safety-practice are emerged as significant contributors to work injuries for the mines studied. Two most interesting findings obtained through this study are (i) 36% of cases (injured employees) (MD < 1) are unlucky to meet an accident and (ii) …40% of the controls (non-injured employees) (MD > 1) are lucky to be able to avoid an accident. The most probable reason for the former case is the organizational ineffectiveness while that for the latter may be risky adventures of employees which are due to lack of education, awareness, and appropriate training. Based on the MD values for cases and controls, possible design guidelines are suggested. The study categorically identifies the accident situations where engineering control, education and training, and other organizational safety measures are to be adopted. Show more

Keywords: Work injuries, case-control study, Mahalanobis distance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0571-3117

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3117-3122, 2012

Authors: Vilela, Rag | Almeida, IM | Nunes da Silva, A | Gomes, MHP | Prado, H | Buoso, E | Dias, MD | Cavalcante, S | Lacorte, LE

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In 2008, academic researchers and public service officials created a university extension studies platform based on online and on-site meetings denominated “Work-Related Accidents Forum: Analysis, Prevention, and Other Relevant Aspects. Its aim was to help public agents and social partners to propagate a systemic approach that would be helpful in the surveillance and prevention of work-related accidents. This article describes and analyses such a platform. Online access is free and structured to: support dissemination of updated concepts; support on-site meetings and capacity to build educational activities; and keep a permanent space for debate among the registered participants. The desired result …is the propagation of a socialtechnical-systemic view of work-related accidents that replaces the current traditional view that emphasizes human error and results in blaming the victims. The Forum uses an educational approach known as permanent health education, which is based on the experience and needs of workers and encourages debate among participants. The forum adopts a problematizing pedagogy that starts from the requirements and experiences of the social actors and stimulates support and discussions among them in line with an ongoing health educational approach. The current challenge is to turn the platform into a social networking website in order to broaden its links with society. Show more

Keywords: Education, University Extension, Web page, Work-related accident prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0572-3123

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3123-3129, 2012

Authors: Maciel, Regina Heloisa | Fontenelle, Marselle Fernandes | Gonçalves, Rosemary Cavalcante | Lopes, Taise Araújo | Moura, Tuany Maria Sousa | Monteiro, Felipe Mendes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper presents a comparative study of working conditions and health hazards of two ports in the state of Ceará: Mucuripe and Pecém, focusing workers in the various categories involved in the operational activities of the two ports. The aim is to investigate changes implemented by the restructuring process of ports arising from the Port Modernization Act. In the case of Ceará, the organization and control of work at the mentioned ports occur differently: Mucuripe, the oldest port, had to adapt to the changes enforced by the Modernization Act and Pecém, called Port Terminal, inaugurated in 2001, “was born modern”. …To achieve our objective, we carried out field work, using Ergonomic Work Analysis. Systematic observations were made of the various activities carried out by workers, as well as interviews with managers, workers and trade unionists. Container operations and other activities of the two ports were recorded in film and presented to groups of workers (focus groups) in order to better understand work organization and the main differences in tasks carried out in the two ports. Each reality presents different characteristics regarding port operations, type of work and labor control. Results indicate that due to the technological innovations, the restructuring process reduced some risks, but brought new occupational hazards and intensification of work. Show more

Keywords: Dockworkers, port systems restructuring, safety and health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0573-3130

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3130-3135, 2012

Authors: Simões, R. | Daniellou, F. | Nascimento, A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article describes a particular way developed by employees to respond to the constraints of a very restrictive manufacturing plant: the mutual cooperation. Facing a very strict organizational context, the production workers can only rely on themselves to cope with the constraints of work. In this context, a complex system of strategies is deployed, resulting in a work environment governed by the sense of collaboration and mutual cooperation. The objectives of the implemented strategies, however, go beyond the attempts to reduce the work overload. They may be linked to a way of maintaining high levels of productivity and a way …for workers to keep their jobs. We hope to contribute, through this study, to the general knowledge of the strategies developed by workers in production lines in order to minimize the pains. Show more

Keywords: collective strategies, collective work, physical workload, margin of maneuver, cooperation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0574-3136

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3136-3142, 2012

Authors: De Souza Dias, Líssia Maria | Diniz, Raimundo Lopes | de Macedo Guimarães, Lia Buarque

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This article presents a study on the accidents related to the use of products and services, as recorded at two emergency hospitals at the city São Luís, Brazil. The goal of the study was to evaluate the main types and causes of unintentional acccidents as well as the more frequent injuries for further improvement of products and services. The study evaluated the victims profile (gender and age), the circumstances (activity, local and time) that lead to the accidents and the type of resulted injury. Non-parametric statistics showed that 83.64% of the accidents were related to products (57.6% of them being …consumer products) and 8.6% are related to maintenance services. 57.6% of the victims were children under 15 years old, and 58.4% were male. 50.2% of accidents occurred at home, more often (44.7%) in the afternoon. The most common injuriy was musculoesqueletal (48.6%), 49.0% being cranioencephalic trauma and 15.2% fractures. Show more

Keywords: accidents, product, service, injuries

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0575-3143

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3143-3147, 2012

Authors: Lopes, Manoela Gomes Reis | de Gouveia Vilela, Rodolfo Andrade | de Almeida, Ildeberto Muniz | Mioto, Odilamar Lopes | Takahashi, Mara Alice batista Conti | Perin, Fernanda Oliveira

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In 2010, an accident occurred in Americana-SP, Brazil, involving two trains and one bus on a Grade Crossing, when 10 people died and 17 were injured including workers. This paper aims to analyze the accident using the Model of Analysis and Prevention of Work Accidents (MAPA). The method provides observation of work, interviews and analysis of documents to understand precedents of the event in the following stages: to understand the usual work from the involved people, the changes occurred in the system, the operation of barriers, managerial and organizational aspects. By the end, measures are suggested to avoid new occurrences. …The accident took place at night in a site with insufficient lighting. The working conditions of bus drivers, train operators and watchmen are inadequate. There were only symbolic barriers (visual and acoustic signals) triggered manually by watchman upon train operator radio communication. The fragility of the barrier system associated to poor lighting and short time to trigger the signaling seem to play a critical role in the event. Contrary to the official report which resulted in guilt of the bus driver, the conclusion of the paper emphasizes the fragility of the safety system and the need of level crossing reproject. Show more

Keywords: Health and Safety, Highway, Railway, Work Accidents, Level Crossing

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0576-3148

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3148-3154, 2012