Work - Volume 53, issue 1

Authors: Calogiuri, Giovanna | Evensen, Katinka | Weydahl, Andi | Andersson, Kim | Patil, Grete | Ihlebæk, Camilla | Raanaas, Ruth K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Stress and mental fatigue are major health threats to employees in office-based occupations. Physical activity is widely used as a stress-management intervention for employees. Moreover, experiences in contact with nature have been shown to provide stress-reduction and restoration from mental fatigue. OBJECTIVES: In a pilot study designed as a randomized controlled trial we investigated the impact of a green-exercise intervention on psychological and physiological indicators of stress in municipality employees. METHODS: Fourteen employees (7 females and 7 males, 49±8 yrs) volunteered in an exercise-based intervention in workplace either outdoors in a green/nature area or …in an indoor exercise-setting. The intervention consisted of an information meeting and two exercise sessions, each including a biking bout and a circuit-strength sequence using elastic rubber bands (45-minutes, at about 55% of HR reserve, overall). Main outcomes were perceived environmental potential for restoration, affective state, blood pressure (BP) and cortisol awakening response (CAR AUCG and CAR AUCI ) and cortisol levels in serum. Measurements were taken at baseline and in concomitance with the exercise sessions. Furthermore, affective state and self-reported physical activity levels were measured over a 10-weeks follow-up period. RESULTS: Compared with the indoor group, the nature group reported higher environmental potential for restoration (p  <  0.001) and Positive Affect (p  <  0.01), along with improved CAR AUCI (p  = 0.04) and, marginally, diastolic BP (p  = 0.05). The nature group also reported higher ratings of Positive Affect at follow-up (p  = 0.02). Differences at post-exercise were not found for any of the other components of affective state, systolic BP, CAR AUCG and cortisol levels measured in serum. CONCLUSIONS: Green-exercise at the workplace could be a profitable way to manage stress and induce restoration among employees. Further studies on larger samples are needed in order to improve the generalizability of the results. Show more

Keywords: Natural environment, workplace intervention, restorative environment, mental fatigue, job stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152219

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 99-111, 2016

Authors: Ihlebæk, Camilla | Ellingsen-Dalskau, Lina H. | Berget, Bente

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Care farming is an increasing part of multifunctional agriculture. Still there are few studies on how the farmers experience their working situation. OBJECTIVE: To describe care farmers’ relevant education, motivation, perceived support, involvement with participants, and perceived strain. We also wanted to investigate the possible relationship between different variables and level of perceived strain. METHODS: A total of 98 (67%) Norwegian care farmers answered a postal questionnaire in 2011 on demography, motivation, relevant education, involvement in participants, and 11 statements describing perceived strain of care farming. A sum-score of the 11 statements was constructed, and …a linear regression model was used to explore the relationships between total perceived strain and the other variables. RESULTS: Of the farmers 40% had relevant education. Their main motivation was economical (53%) or “idealistic” (47%). 80% reported that care farming had increased their quality of life. Still the majority experienced it to be socially demanding, and 26% did not receive support from professionals. Higher total perceived strain was found for men, low education, no perceived support, high degree of involvement, and less perceived functionality of participants. The model explained 40% of the variance in total perceived strain. CONCLUSION: More systematic cooperation and supervision from the social and health care system might be needed, in order to ensure a health promoting work situation for these care farmers. Show more

Keywords: Care farming, Green care, multifunctional agriculture, work situation, strain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152220

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 113-121, 2016

Authors: Westre, Andreas | Ulveseth Minde, Elin J. | Raanaas, Ruth K.

Article Type: Research Article

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152221

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 123-125, 2016

Authors: Punchihewa, Himan K.G. | Gyi, Diane E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) affect the well-being of workers. Unfortunately, user requirements for design to reduce workplace risk factors for MSDs are not always effectively communicated to designers creating a mismatch between the user requirements and what is ultimately produced. OBJECTIVE: To understand the views of practitioners of design and ergonomics regarding tools for participatory design and features they would like to see in such tools. METHODS: An online questionnaire survey was conducted with a cohort of practitioners of ergonomics and design (n  = 32). In-depth interviews were then conducted with a subset of these practitioners …(n  = 8). To facilitate discussion, a prototype integrated design tool was developed and demonstrated to practitioners using a verbalized walkthrough approach. RESULTS: According to the results of the questionnaire survey, the majority (70%) believed an integrated approach to participatory design would help reduce work-related MSDs and suggested ways to achieve this, for example, through sharing design information. The interviews showed the majority (n  = 7) valued being provided with guidance on design activities and ways to manage and present information. CONCLUSION: It is believed that an integrated approach to design in order to help reduce work-related MSDs is highly important and a provision to evaluate design solutions would be desirable for practitioners of design and ergonomics. Show more

Keywords: Design process, participatory design, design methods

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152126

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 127-142, 2016

Authors: Maiwald, Karin | Meershoek, Agnes | de Rijk, Angelique | Nijhuis, Frans J.N.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Canada and other countries, sickness-based absences among workers is an economic and sociological problem. Return-to-work (RTW) policy developed by both employer and worker’ representatives (that is, bipartite policy) is preferred to tackle this problem. OBJECTIVE: The intent was to examine how this bipartite agreed-upon RTW policy works from the perspective of occupational health professionals (those who deliver RTW services to workers with temporary or permanent disabilities) in a public healthcare organization in Canada. METHODS: In-depth interviews were held with 9 occupational health professionals and transcribed verbatim. A qualitative, social constructivist, analysis was completed. …RESULTS: The occupational health professionals experienced four main problems: 1) timing and content of physicians’ medical advice cannot be trusted as a basis for RTW plans; 2) legal status of the plans and thus needing workers’ consent and managers’ approval can create tension, conflict and delays; 3) limited input and thus little fruitful inference in transdisciplinary meetings at the workplace; and yet 4) the professionals can be called to account for plans. CONCLUSIONS: Bipartite representation in developing RTW policy does not entirely delete bottlenecks in executing the policy. Occupational health professionals should be offered more influence and their professionalism needs to be enhanced. Show more

Keywords: Sickness absence, return-to-work policy, discretionary space, professionals’ perspective, implementation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152141

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 143-156, 2016

Authors: Ervolino, Frank | Gazze, Ronald

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Low back pain is a significant cause of lost workplace productivity. Identification of simple, safe, and effective treatment strategies that can be used in the workplace are needed. OBJECTIVE: To assess whether far-infrared therapy (FIR) can ameliorate chronic back pain in office workers with the hypothesis that back pain could be effectively treated while at work with minimal interruption to the normal working day. METHODS: In a cohort study, 50 subjects with low back pain of at least six months duration were recruited from a Florida corporation. The subjects were instructed to use a FIR …pad placed in their chairs in contact with the affected area while on the job over a 4 week period for at least 45 minutes a day during workdays. The FIR device used for the study was the Thermotex TTS Platinum Pad, a widely available FDA-registered medical device with preclinical data on its deep heating effects. The outcomes were assessed using subscales of the SF-36v2. RESULTS: Results showed statistically significant changes in 9 of 10 SF-36 subscales including both physical and mental components with a near significant improvement to General Health. There was progressive improvement each week in physical component and bodily pain scales. There were no reported adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: Use of site-specific FIR therapy over a four-week period in the workplace was associated with significant clinical improvements in pain and quality of life for office workers with previously refractory low back pain. Show more

Keywords: Workers, chronic back pain, alternative back pain treatment, device, workplace wellness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152152

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 157-162, 2016

Authors: Dale, Lucinda M. | Mikuski, Connie | Miller, Jacqueline

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Core stability and flexibility, features of Pilates exercise, can reduce loads to the upper extremities. Reducing loads is essential to improve symptoms for individuals with lateral epicondylosis. Although Pilates exercise has gained popularity in healthy populations, it has not been studied for individuals with lateral epicondylosis. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine if adding Pilates-based intervention to standard occupational therapy intervention improved outcomes as measured by the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) more than standard intervention for individuals with lateral epicondylosis. METHODS: Participants (N  = 17) were randomized to the standard intervention group …or Pilates-based intervention group. All participants received standard intervention. The Pilates-based intervention group additionally completed abdominal strengthening, postural correction, and flexibility. RESULTS: For both groups, paired t -tests showed significantly improved PRTEE scores, 38.1 for the Pilates-based intervention group, and 22.9 for the standard intervention group. Paired t -test showed significantly improved provocative grip strength and pain for both groups. Independent t -tests showed no significant difference between groups in improved scores of PRTEE, pain, and provocative grip. CONCLUSIONS: Although the Pilates-based intervention group showed greater improvement in PRTEE outcome, provocative grip, and pain, scores were not significantly better than those of the standard intervention group, warranting further research. Show more

Keywords: Outcome, exercise, clinical change, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152108

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 163-174, 2016

Authors: Yoo, In-gyu | Yoo, Won-gyu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Previous research has suggested eliminating certain types of manual material handling (MMH) work by recommending specific arm angles and postures to avoid, such as arm flexion or abduction over 90°. MMH with arm flexion over 90° can require lifting objects as well as lowering objects. However, few studies have evaluated MMH work while lowering objects in detail. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effects of different lifting and lowering heights on upper arm, shoulder, and back muscle activity during a MMH task. METHODS: The participants performed a MMH task that involved stoop lowering and lifting. The …participants transferred the box to shelves positioned 30 cm in front of them under various conditions. Conditions 1 to 4 involved transferring the box to 1) ankle-, 2) knee-, 3) waist-, and 4) shoulder-high shelves, respectively. Surface electrodes were attached to the biceps brachii, upper trapezius, rhomboid minor, and L4 erector spinae. RESULTS: The activity of the biceps brachii was decreased significantly in Conditions 1 and 2 compared to Conditions 3 and 4. The upper trapezius activity was increased significantly in Conditions 1 and 4 compared to Conditions 2 and 3. The rhomboid minor activity increased significantly in Condition 1 compared to Conditions 2 to 4. The L4 erector spinae activity decreased significantly in Condition 1 compared to Conditions 2 to 4 CONCLUSIONS: A low-lowering MMH work could contribute to neck, shoulder, and back pain. Therefore, further studies must examine a height below-knee MMH work in detail. Show more

Keywords: Cumulative trauma disorders, lifting, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152157

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 175-179, 2016

Authors: Martínez-Aires, María Dolores | Rubio Gámez, María Carmen | Gibb, Alistair

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Since the mid-1990 s, Prevention through Design (PtD) has become increasingly prevalent in the built environment. The acceptance of PtD has largely been due to the removal or reduction of risks during the execution phase of construction projects. European States have had the added impetus of national legislation. OBJECTIVE: This paper analyzes the influence of European Union Directive 92/57/EEC on occupational safety and health injury prevention in the project design phase. METHODS: Qualitative methods comprised individual semi-structured interviews and focus groups with a panel of experts. Sixty individuals from construction and related professions (architects, engineers, constructors, …developers, and other construction experts) answered 17 key questions to establish national perceptions of the effectiveness of Directive 92/57/EEC in Spain and the United Kingdom (UK). RESULTS: The implementation of PtD in the project design phase in the UK is clearer since the regulations explicitly state the obligations of project designers as well as those of the coordinator. Interviews with Spanish experts show that, in Spain, the prevention culture is less frequently realized. CONCLUSIONS: The most significant differences between the European Directive and national regulations which influence PtD are linked to the Health and Safety Coordinator, and Health and Safety documents. Show more

Keywords: Prevention through design (PtD), directive 92/57/EEC, occupational safety and health, construction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152148

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 181-191, 2016

Authors: Peres, S. Camille | Kortum, Philip T. | Akladios, Magdy | Muddimer, Andrew

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There are many effective methods for decreasing the likelihood of repetitive strain injury (RSI) for those who work at a computer in an office environment. This study is focused on the highly repetitive task of interpreting seismic data. The skilled geoscientists who perform this work are very well compensated, and their work is vital to the success of the oil company. However, RSIs are still occurring in situations where effective methods of mitigating injuries have been successfully implemented and this has been occurring very frequently for geoscientists. This suggests that there are other elements contributing to the development of …these injuries and one element could be the software interaction design. However, it is difficult for software designers to determine this because most measures associated with muscle activity require expensive data collection methods. OBJECTIVE: This paper describes research conducted to determine if survey-based subjective measures might be used to assess the potential for RSI for software programs. METHODS: In laboratory and field settings, data were collected using three different survey instruments (NASA-Task Load Index, Latko’s Busiest Hand Activity Level Scale, and the Borg CR10 Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale) and conventional measures of muscle activity (sEMG). Correlations between the surveys and muscle activity were then calculated. RESULTS: For both the laboratory and the field, people were able to provide reliable self-report information related to their muscle activity. However, the effect sizes were not large. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that self-report tools could be utilized to identify software interaction designs related associated with risks of RSI. Show more

Keywords: Repetitive strain injury, sEMG, office ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152142

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 193-204, 2016