Work - Volume 41, issue Supplement 1

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

Authors: Reyes-Martínez, Rosa María | Maldonado-Macías, Aide | Prado-León, Lilia Roselia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The causes of occupational accidents from the perspective of human factors have been a subject which has received little attention into the field of scientific research. The aim of this research was to identify and classify the human factors that influence human errors and failures that cause accidents and injuries specifically on hands. Available studies related to the topic have been developed mainly for aerospace applications and are found insufficient to explain accidents causalities in the manufacturing industry. This research was developed in the assembly industry of automotive harnesses and was conducted following a mixed Cognitive Anthropological approach. This study …was developed in two phases. During the first qualitative phase, participants freely listed their knowledge to identify elements of the cultural domain, then and in the second phase they performed the successive pile sort technique for the collection data to classify elements in the cultural domain. Statistical models like Cluster Analysis and Multidimensional Scaling were applied for results’ validation purposes. As results, 70 different human factors were identified and in the second phase they were classified into 4 main categories which were: human error, unsafe conditions, individual factors, and organizational factors. Statistical methods validated these results. Show more

Keywords: Keyword one, keyword two, keyword three, keyword four, keyword five

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0577-3155

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3155-3163, 2012

Authors: Quintana, Leonardo | Lizarazo, Cesar | Bernal, Oscar | Cordoba, Jorge | Arias, Claudia | Monroy, Magda | Cotrino, Carlos | Montoya, Olga

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper shows the general design conditions about ergonomics and safety for control centers in the petrochemical process industry. Some of the topics include guidelines for the optimized workstation design, control room layout, building layout, and lighting, acoustical and environmental design. Also takes into account the safety parameters in the control rooms and centers design. The conditions and parameters shown in this paper come from the standards and global advances on this topic on the most recent publications. And also the work was supplemented by field visits of our team to the control center operations in a petrochemical company, and …technical literature search efforts. This guideline will be useful to increase the productivity and improve the working conditions at the control rooms. Show more

Keywords: safety, control center, interface, architectural, ergonomics criteria, ergonomics arquitectural design, petrochemical industry

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0578-3164

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3164-3173, 2012

Authors: Andrade, Luís Renato Balbão | Amaral, Fernando Gonçalves

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Abstract Nanotechnologies is a multidisciplinary set of techniques to manipulate matter on nanoscale level, more precisely particles below 100 nm whose characteristic due to small size is essentially different from those found in macro form materials. Regarding to these new properties of the materials there are knowledge gaps about the effects of these particles on human organism and the environment. Although it still being considered emerging technology it is growing increasingly fast as well as the number of products using nanotechnologies in some production level and so the number of researchers involved with the subject. Given this scenario and based …on literature related, a comprehensive methodology for health and safety at work for researching laboratories with activities in nanotechnologies was developed, based on ILO structure guidelines for safety and health at work system on which a number of nanospecific recommendations were added to. The work intends to offer food for thought on controlling risks associated to nanotechnologies. Show more

Keywords: nanotechnologies, OHS, health, laboratories

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0579-3174

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3174-3180, 2012

Authors: Marciano, Hadas | Yeshurun, Yaffa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A broadened version of the perceptual load model was utilized to explore systematically the influence of four variables on driver’s behavior: a. levels of load on the road; b. levels of load at the sides of the road; c. event’s initial location (on the road vs. at the sides of the road); and d. the presence and size of advertizing billboards. 18 participants participated in two experimental sessions in a driving simulator. One of the sessions contained advertizing billboards and the other session did not. The results indicated that billboards can have a considerable effect on various aspects of driving …like the time required responding to a potentially dangerous event or simply the number of accidents occurring during driving, but importantly the effect of billboards on driving was modulated by the levels of perceptual load. Show more

Keywords: Attention, Driver distraction, Visual perceptio

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0580-3181

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3181-3188, 2012

Authors: Lee, Yun-Ju | Hoozemans, Marco J.M. | van Dieën, Jaap H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Unexpected sudden (un)loading of the trunk may induce inadequate responses of trunk muscles and uncontrolled trunk motion. These unexpected perturbations may occur in pushing tasks, when the cart suddenly starts moving (unloading) or is blocked by an obstacle (loading). In pushing, handle height affects the user’s working posture, which may influence trunk muscle activity and trunk movement in response to the perturbation. Eleven healthy male subjects pushed a 200 kg cart with handles at shoulder and hip height in a start condition (sudden release of brakes) and a stop condition (bumping into an obstacle). Before the perturbation, the baseline of …the trunk inclination, internal moment and trunk extensor muscle activity were significantly higher when pushing at hip height than at shoulder height. After the perturbation, the changes in trunk inclination and internal moment were significantly larger when pushing at shoulder height than at hip height in both conditions. The opposite directions of changes in trunk inclination and internal moment suggest that the unexpected perturbations caused uncontrolled trunk motion. Pushing at shoulder height may impose a high risk of low-back injury due to the low trunk stiffness and large involuntary trunk motion occurring after carts suddenly move or stop. Show more

Keywords: manual material handling, occupational biomechanics, trunk muscle control, unexpected perturbation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0581-3189

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3189-3195, 2012

Authors: Cardoso-Junior, M.M. | Scarpel, R.A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The main focus of risk management is technical and rational analysis about the operational risks and by those imposed by the occupational environment. In this work one seeks to contribute to the risk perception study and to better comprehend how a group of occupational safety students assesses a set of activities and environmental agents. In this way it was used theory sustained by psychometric paradigm and multivariate analysis tools, mainly multidimensional scaling, generalized Procrustes analysis and facets theory, in order to construct the perceptual map of occupational risks. The results obtained showed that the essential characteristics of risks, which were …initially splited in 4 facets were detected and maintained in the perceptual map. It was not possible to reveal the cognitive structure of the group, because the variability of the students was too high. Differences among the risks analyzed could not be detected as well in the perceptual map of the group. Show more

Keywords: Safety, Multidimensional Scaling, Occupational Environment, Risks

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0582-3196

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3196-3201, 2012

Authors: de Almeida, Ildeberto Muniz | Nobre Jr, Hildeberto | do Amaral Dias, Maria Dionísia | Vilela, Rodolfo Andrade Gouveia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Workplace accidents involving machines are relevant for their magnitude and their impacts on worker health. Despite consolidated critical statements, explanation centered on errors of operators remains predominant with industry professionals, hampering preventive measures and the improvement of production-system reliability. Several initiatives were adopted by enforcement agencies in partnership with universities to stimulate production and diffusion of analysis methodologies with a systemic approach. Starting from one accident case that occurred with a worker who operated a brakeclutch type mechanical press, the article explores cognitive aspects and the existence of traps in the operation of this machine. It deals with a large-sized …press that, despite being endowed with a light curtain in areas of access to the pressing zone, did not meet legal requirements. The safety devices gave rise to an illusion of safety, permitting activation of the machine when a worker was still found within the operational zone. Preventive interventions must stimulate the tailoring of systems to the characteristics of workers, minimizing the creation of traps and encouraging safety policies and practices that replace judgments of behaviors that participate in accidents by analyses of reasons that lead workers to act in that manner. Show more

Keywords: Accident investigation, accident prevention, error trap

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0583-3202

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3202-3206, 2012

Authors: Stojiljkovic, Evica | Grozdanovic, Miroljub | Stojiljkovic, Predrag

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper presents a case study which confirmed that the use of APJ for proper assessment of human error in the Electric Power Company of Serbia (hereinafter EPS). The proposal methodological framework was used for human error identification and quantification in the case of a repair intervention on a steel lattice tower 10/0.4 kV (jurisdiction of an EPS subsidiary ED “Jugoistok”, Nis, Serbia) which resulted in an accident with a fatal outcome. One of the aims of this study is to show the necessity of human error assessment not only in manufacturing industries but, as it will be shown in …this paper, in companies that distribute electric energy, as well. Show more

Keywords: Human Error, Human Error Assessment, Absolute Probability Judgement, Risk Assessment, Industrial accident

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0584-3207

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3207-3212, 2012

Authors: Blomé, Mikael | Ek, Åsa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: To be able to disseminate knowledge about maritime safety culture and safety management to different actors in the Swedish maritime sector, a preliminary pedagogical concept was developed and evaluated. As a first user group, students at upper secondary maritime schools were chosen and the pedagogical concept was adapted for this group. The concept includes an interactive prototype and a teacher’s guide and is based on a model for experience-based learning which connects theory and practice by a cyclic approach. The concept was tested in a classroom setting including interaction with the students and a follow-up one week later. A preliminary …evaluation of the results shows a very positive response among the students as well as the lecturers. The educational material was successful in immediately creating a relevant discussion about safety culture, and one week later, students could remember many of the safety scenarios included in the pedagogical concept. Show more

Keywords: Learning tool, maritime safety, visualization, interactive prototype

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0585-3213

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3213-3215, 2012

Authors: Akselsson, Roland | Jacobsson, Anders | Bötjesson, Marcus | Ek, ÅSa | Enander, Ann

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Learning from incidents is important for improving safety. Many companies spend a great deal of time and money on such learning procedures. The objectives of this paper are to present some early results from a project aimed at revealing weaknesses in the procedures for learning from incidents and to discuss improvements in these procedures, especially in chemical process industries. The empirical base comes from a project assessing organizational learning and the effectiveness of the different steps of the learning cycle for safety and studying relations between safety-specific transformational leadership, safety climate, trust, safety-related behavior and learning from incidents. The results …point at common weaknesses in the organizational learning, both in the horizontal learning (geographical spread) and in vertical learning (double-loop learning). Furthermore, the effectiveness in the different steps of the learning cycle is low due to insufficient information in incident reports, very shallow analyses of reports, decisions that focus at solving the problem only at the place where the incident took place, late implementations and weak solutions. Strong correlations with learning from incidents were found for all safety climate variables as well as for safety-related behaviors and trust. The relationships were very strong for trust, safety knowledge, safety participation and safety compliance. Show more

Keywords: Learning from incidents, organizational learning, safety leadership, safety climate

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0661-3216

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3216-3222, 2012

Authors: Kendrick, Victoria L. | Haslam, Roger A. | Waterson, Patrick E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A case study investigation within a large UK university involving semi-structured stakeholder interviews, examined the organisation, coordination, and security within crowd events of various descriptions. Similarities in approaches and priorities emerged with crowd event organisation, primarily attention to safety requirements, in protecting crowd members, venue reputation, and legal obligations. Conversely, attention to and attitudes and beliefs surrounding user experience, crowd comfort and satisfaction, were often based on personal judgment, and appeared to be influenced by budget considerations. The findings suggest a lack of knowledge and usable evidence based guidance for planning crowd events in relation to important aspects affecting participant …satisfaction. Show more

Keywords: Crowds, Crowding, User experience, Satisfaction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0586-3223

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3223-3226, 2012

Authors: Korunka, Christian | Kubicek, Bettina | Prem, Roman | Cvitan, Antonio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The study investigated the role of recovery and detachment in the break period between two shifts for fatigue in the current shift. A time-based paper-and-pencil diary study was carried out observing sixty-four railway controllers over ten consecutive working shifts. The results demonstrated that fatigue in the current shift was not only affected by recovery and psychological detachment during break phases before a shift, but also by fatigue at shift onset and perceived workload during the shift.

Keywords: Shift work, diary study, recovery, psychological detachment, fatigue

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0587-3227

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3227-3233, 2012

Authors: Alm, Håkan | Gärling, Anita | Bonnevier, Sara Saellström | Danielsson, Mats

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to describe an ongoing project with the aim of improving safety in an organization working with maintenance and development of the railway infrastructure in Sweden. The first sub goal was to investigate the Genta method, with 62 employees resulted in a description of these latent errors in the organization.eral Failure Types in the organization. Seminars and interviews, based on the Tripod Del Recommendations for an improvement toward a safety culture was suggested, action plans were formulated and, in some cases, implemented. A follow up study is planned in a two year perspective.

Keywords: Key words: Safety, complexity, Tripod Delta, maintenance, railway infrastructure

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0588-3234

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3234-3237, 2012

Authors: Borges, Fábio Morais | Menegon, Nilton Luiz

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Into dangerous and complex systems with high degree of interactivity between its components, the variability is present at all time, demanding a high degree of control of its operation. Maintaining or recovering the normality, when the system is under some stress (instability) is a function of Resilience. To cope with prevention, forecast, recovery and with memory of experiences from learned lessons requires some features from the companies. This paper purposes a structure that enables the Total Resilience of a system production that defines the assignments for Workers, Designers and Management Team, according to its features and possibilities. During one year …and a half developing studies on ergonomics area of a Brazilian Oil Refinery, several situations were observed and studied using Work Ergonomic Analysis. These situations show actions and strategies that workers use to maintain the system stability. Furthermore, they revealed the importance that these actions are stored in a database of learned lessons from the Company. The research resulted in a broad scheme. It places each of these groups in the process of Total Resilience. It also shows the human like a center of actions that ensure the continuity of the system, main element at Resilience (Anthropocentric View). Show more

Keywords: resilience, management, designers, workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0589-3238

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3238-3245, 2012

Authors: de Almeida, Ildeberto Muniz | Buoso, Eduardo | do Amaral Dias, Maria Dionísia | Vilela, Rodolfo Andrade Gouveia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study analyzes an accident in which two maintenance workers suffered severe burns while replacing a circuit breaker panel in a steel mill, following model of analysis and prevention of accidents (MAPA) developed with the objective of enlarging the perimeter of interventions and contributing to deconstruction of blame attribution practices. The study was based on materials produced by a health service team in an in-depth analysis of the accident. The analysis shows that decisions related to system modernization were taken without considering their implications in maintenance scheduling and creating conflicts of priorities and of interests between production and safety; and …also reveals that the lack of a systemic perspective in safety management was its principal failure. To explain the accident as merely non-fulfillment of idealized formal safety rules feeds practices of blame attribution supported by alibi norms and inhibits possible prevention. In contrast, accident analyses undertaken in worker health surveillance services show potential to reveal origins of these events incubated in the history of the system ignored in practices guided by the traditional paradigm. Show more

Keywords: occupational accidents, accident prevention, accident investigation, surveillance system

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0590-3246

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3246-3251, 2012

Authors: Silva, João Alexandre Pinheiro | Menegon, Nilton Luis | de Carvalho, Marly Monteiro

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study reviews the academic literature on human reliability from the ergonomics perspective. The methodological approach used in this analysis combines several techniques, including bibliometric, content analysis, and social network analysis. The initial sample consisted of 304 articles, which totalized 1,872 citations, published in 94 journals, from the 47-year period between 1963 and 2011. From this initial sample, only 50 articles (16%), totalizing 471 citations are classified as ergonomics area, published in 14 journals, which involve 108 authors, with 471 citations. This sample was expanded via the seminal studies of ergonomics. These articles were coded and tabulated according to their …year of publication, the number of publications per journal, major areas of interest, and the relationship between the articles and the research methods discussed. Networks were prepared by keywords, co-citations, and cross-citations. Show more

Keywords: human reliability, bibliometric, content analysis, social networks

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0591-3252

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3252-3259, 2012

Authors: Cândido, Paula Emanuela Fernandes | Merino, Eugenio Andrés Díaz | Gontijo, Leila Amaral

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The auditory channel is one of the most affected by the activity of musicians. The aim of this study was to verify the efficiency of the Monitor of Hearing In Ear regarding prevention of the hearing loss in the activity realized by musicians. This study justifies by the need to verify a possible method of protection for these professionals. It was analyzed a group of 10 musicians of a band of dance of Santa Catarina. The methods of research were questionnaires, audiometry and analysis of the technical specifications of Monitors of Hearing In Ear. The population investigated are aged between …18–56, and time in the profession between 37 and 0,4 years. The exhibition is of, roughly, 12 hours a week during the presentations, 4,5 hours a week rehearsing in group and from 1 to 8 weekly hours of isolated rehearsal. It was observed that 40% of the population presented normal hearing thresholds for left and right ear, the sensorineural hearing loss in the left ear was ascertained in 40% and 20% presented sensorineural hearing loss in both ears. The advantage of the Monitor of Hearing In Ear is that there is the blocking of the undesirable sounds, making possible a greater audible reduction, generally between 25 and 40 dB, showing possibility to be considered a half of protection for professional musicians. Show more

Keywords: Sound Pressure Level, Hearing Disorders, In ear monitor

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0592-3260

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3260-3268, 2012

Authors: Barkokebas Junior, B. | Lago, E. | Vasconcelos, B. | Oliveira, E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Facing an increasing violence level and higher firepower in the hands of criminal organizations (especially those related to drug trafficking), the Military Police of Pernambuco has created, in 1989, the “1a Companhia Independente de Operações Especiais” (1st Independent Company of Special Operations), as a tactical last resort of the Police to be used on special, complex situations. The CIOE progressively makes use of Negotiation measures, of less-than-lethal maneuvers, of Precision Shots and Tactical Assaults. When all possibilities are drained, the Precision Shot will bring the crisis perpetrator down. This study had as an objective to assess the level …of impact noise suffered by the elite snipers of the 1st CIOE-PE in their training. The working conditions of the snipers were evaluated through the use of a semi-structured questionnaire. Noise measuring was done on four (4) .308 IMBEL AGLC (with ammo from the same lot) rifles. Six (6) shots were fired off each gun, separated by a 30-second pause. In the end, it has been concluded that the noise level the 1st CIOE snipers are submitted to is considered to be normal by Brazilian legislation. Show more

Keywords: occupational assessment on noise, police snipers, firearms

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0593-3269

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3269-3276, 2012

Authors: Vaz Junior, Carlos André | de Araujo Mendonça, Roberto | Vaz Morgado, Cláudia do Rosário

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper focuses on the reality of very small and small enterprises (VSSEs) in Brazil, concerning health and safety management of their workers. These companies tend to operate in a few administrative levels. The owners’ health and safety culture is fundamental for the implementation of preventive measures. The VSSEs end up adopting merely reactive and under-the-law actions. In order to understand such reality, a questionnaire was elaborated especially for the reasearch made. Fiftyfive very small and small enterprises of the industrial, commercial and service sectors were selected. The research confirmed the reactive attitude shown by the VSSEs, thus demonstrating that …none of the companies involved presented policies of safety and health. Even though not holding policies, programs or scopes of their activities, 22% of them revealed to have a clear definition of the responsibilities of their high level administration. Nevertheless, 10% had financial resources allocated to this sector. Such companies do not count on a frequent safety and health support. The ignorance on it leads them to take a reactive action. This study reaches its objective on contributing to the debate, besides indicating that the way to improvement is on the strict cooperation between governments, companies, workers and society. Show more

Keywords: Very Small and Small Enterprises, Safety Management and Health, Health and Safety Culture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0594-3277

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3277-3283, 2012

Authors: Lallemand, Carine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper presents the results of an ergonomic intervention conducted within a blast furnace plant. As part of its risk prevention program, the company decided to set up an action plan, in a participatory manner, by setting up working groups to solve health & safety issues. This field mission involved 230 employees, 80 of whom participated actively by being incorporated into working groups. After four months of intervention, a questionnaire survey has been conducted among employees to study the effects of participation on the safety climate. The results seem promising and show that the benefits of participation are numerous: a …more positive safety climate associated to safer attitudes and behaviors. However, rather than just participation, it seems to be the employee involvement in the working groups and the satisfaction they derive from their participation that guarantee these positive results. Hence, participatory ergonomics seems to be an effective way to decrease the number of unsafe behaviors at work, provided that the type of participation has been previously well defined and organized according to the specific context of each organization. Show more

Keywords: health & safety, participatory ergonomics, safety culture, safety climate, industrial context

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0595-3284

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3284-3290, 2012