Work - Volume 53, issue 4

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162275

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 689-689, 2016

Authors: Bano, Farheen | Mallick, Zulqernian | Khan, Abid Ali

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational tasks involve awkward upper limb postures, especially movement of forearm with repetitive combined gripping and torqueing exertions, which may lead to development of WMSDs. From the literature survey it was observed that there was a lack of studies focussed on the combined effect of torque and grip exertions on forearm discomfort. OBJECTIVE: The present study was to investigate the effects of grip force, stroke rotation and frequency of exertions on discomfort and Electromyography (EMG) activities of the forearm muscles in a repetitive torqueing task. METHOD: Twenty-seven male participants volunteered in this study. The participants …performed repetitive exertions for a 5 minutes duration for each combination of the different levels of stroke rotation, grip force and frequency of exertions. Three levels of stroke rotation, three levels of grip force and three levels of frequency of exertion were chosen as independent variables. Therefore a 3 × 3 customized factorial design was used for the experiment for each level of grip force. Hence, the study was divided into three groups on the basis of grip force (50N, 70N and 90N). RESULTS: The ANOVA showed that stroke rotation and frequency of exertion were significant on discomfort. Further Students Newmann test (SNK) revealed that discomfort was increased with increasing stroke rotation and frequency of exertion. The multivariate analysis of variances (MANOVA) performed on EMG data instead of ANOVA because EMG activities of five muscles simultaneously were recorded. The Results found that extensor muscles were more fatigued in torqueing with gripping task. CONCLUSIONS: It was found that stroke rotation for the torqueing tasks must be kept below 45°. It was concluded that it is important to control stroke rotation to improve performance of repetitive torqueing activity. Show more

Keywords: Discomfort, grip force, muscle fatigue, stroke rotation, repetitive torqueing exertion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152146

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 691-708, 2016

Authors: Lauría, Antonio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In order to plan a trip, tourists with disabilities need to gather and analyse a broad range of information concerning the features of the places and services with which they are going to interact. For these people, guidebooks may represent an important source of information for gaining prior knowledge about the various critical situations they may experience as tourists. Generally, disabled people find tourist information on dedicated communication tools; guidebooks for the disabled often provide information for wheelchair users only. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the research project was to develop a mainstream guidebook with supplementary tourist information …both for people with impaired vision and for people with reduced mobility. METHODS: The communication project behind “The Florence Experience” guidebook is inspired by both the Universal Design approach and the Performance Design approach. This article describes a case study and provides suggestions for planning in similar situations. It is also part of a broader research project relating to the communication about urban spaces accessibility. RESULTS: The main outcome of the research project is a multimedia and multisensory bilingual guidebook (in Italian and English) that provides information in four separate coordinated forms: a paper-based guidebook, web pages, MP3 audio files, and portable tactile maps. CONCLUSIONS: Creating a guidebook for all is a tough challenge that requires a highly articulated vision and the cooperation of different fields of knowledge and skills. Despite the limits described in the paper, “The Florence Experience” guidebook is, in our opinion, a considerable step forward with respect to the majority of available guidebooks both because it is a unique information tool for disabled and non-disabled people and because, unlike the majority of the guidebooks for disabled people, it does not only consider the needs of wheelchair users. Show more

Keywords: Accessibility, Tourism for All, barrier-free travel information, cultural heritage, accessibility assessment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162256

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 709-727, 2016

Authors: Auyong, Hui-Nee | Zailani, Suhaiza | Surienty, Lilis

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Malaysia’s progress on logistics has been slowed to keep pace with its growth in trade. The Government has been pressing companies to improve the safety of their activities in order to reduce society’s loss due to occupational accidents and illnesses. Occupational safety and health is a crucial part of a workplace because every worker has to take care of his/her own safety and health. The main occupational safety and health (OSH) national policy in Malaysia is the enactment of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 1994. Only those companies which have excellent health and safety care have good …quality and productive employees. This study investigated safety management practices in the logistics sector. OBJECTIVES: The present study is concerned with the human factors to safety in the logistics industry. The authors examined the perceived safety management practices of workers in the logistics sector. The purpose was to identify the perception of safety management practices of Malaysian logistics personnel. METHODS: Survey questionnaires were distributed to assess logistics personnel about management commitment. The quantitative method using the availability sampling method was applied. The data gathered from the survey were analysed using SPSS software. The responses to the survey were rated according to the Likert scale type, with ‘1’ indicating strongly disagree and ‘5’ indicating strongly agree. One hundred and three employees of logistics functions completed the survey. RESULTS: The highest mean scores were found for fire apparatus, prioritisation of safety, and safety policy. CONCLUSIONS: The results from this study also emphasise the importance of the management’s commitment in enhancing workplace safety. Specifically, companies should maintain good relations between the employer and the employee to help reduce workplace injuries. Show more

Keywords: Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, occupational safety and health management system, supply chain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162272

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 729-735, 2016

Authors: Jahnke, Sara A. | Poston, Walker S. Carlos | Haddock, Christopher K. | Murphy, Beth

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Firefighters must be ready to respond to a broad range of emergencies every duty day. In the course of many of these emergencies, firefighters witness events which have the potential to induce emotional trauma, such as badly injured people, deceased children, and individuals who are highly distraught. Previous research suggests that repeated exposure to these traumas (RET) may have negative impacts on the emotional and mental health of fire service personnel. Research on the mental health of firefighters has been limited to small surveys reporting the prevalence of specific mental health problems such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder …among firefighters. OBJECTIVE: Despite the likelihood that RET leads to negative outcomes in firefighters, data is lacking on how exposure impacts fire service personnel. The current study examines the experiences of firefighters related to RET. METHODS: Using formative research methods, we examined the beliefs and experiences of firefighters and administrators from across the United States regarding the impact of RET on firefighter health. RESULTS: Study findings highlight the cumulative psychological toll of repeated exposure to traumatic events including desensitization, flashbacks, and irritability. CONCLUSION: Results of the current study suggest that RET is a significant concern for emergency responders that warrants additional research and attention. It is likely that the long term consequences of RET are closely intertwined with other mental health outcomes and general well-being of this important occupational group. Show more

Keywords: Firefighters, mental health, depression, post-traumatic stress, trauma, EMS

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162255

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 737-744, 2016

Authors: Vyas, Heer | Nag, Anjali | Nag, Pranab

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: An in-depth evaluation of user hand tool interaction aids to derive strenuous areas for redesigning. OBJECTIVE: In this paper, we examined user perception about the hand tool features and derived features that exert an influence on human system. This nature of study aids to reduce the risk and enhance the comfort. METHODS: Workers from six occupational groups participated in the study. Ergonomic checkpoints pertaining tool features and a general health questionnaire that included musculoskeletal discomforts, stress symptoms and general health complaints were administered to check user’s interaction with hand tools. RESULTS: Risk estimates …identified varied factors such as weight of tool, improperly designed handle and sharp edges associated with workers risk to pain in upper extremities, anxiety and injury. The workers’ response indicated that handle redesign and protection against sharp-edged tools are crucial for improving comfort. CONCLUSION: The study aims to provide an approach to examine the characteristics of tools for redesign and increase user’s comfort and safety. Show more

Keywords: Pain, handle, weight, shape, injury

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162279

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 745-753, 2016

Authors: Hayes, Melanie J. | Osmotherly, Peter G. | Taylor, Jane A. | Smith, Derek R. | Ho, Alan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders represent a significant occupational health issue in dental hygiene, with high prevalence rates documented. Despite this fact, there have been few advancements in the application of ergonomic principles in the dental hygiene profession. While the use of loupes is often promoted as an ergonomic solution, there is little published research to support this claim. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study, therefore, was to investigate the effect of the use of loupes on neck pain and disability in dental hygienists. METHODS: The study was conducted using an exploratory pre-test post-test design, comparing musculoskeletal …measures in dental hygienists wearing loupes with final year dental hygiene students who do not wear loupes. Pre- and post-test measures included the Neck Pain and Disability Scale and a standardised physical assessment using previously validated measures. Statistical analysis was conducted as a series of mixed ANOVAs with time and treatment as the independent variables. RESULTS: While the analyses revealed no significant interactions between time and treatment (p  <  0.05), there were general trends of improvement or deterioration for outcome measures. Improvements over time were noted in the treatment group for cervical range of motion and deep neck muscle endurance; however deteriorations were noted for forward head posture and cervical kinaesthetic sense. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, despite no statistically significant differences being detected, this study suggests that wearing loupes appears to have both positive and negative outcomes with regards to physical well-being. As such, further studies are required to more precisely determine the effects of loupes on MSD among dental hygienists, particularly long-term. Dental hygienists with existing neck pain exploring ergonomic equipment may reflect on the findings and consider the potential benefits and risks of wearing loupes. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, risk factors, magnification

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162253

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 755-762, 2016

Authors: Holness, D. Linn | Hayes, Laureen | Nichol, Kathryn | Kudla, Irena | Nincic, Vera

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is very little in the literature on the effectiveness of Joint Health and Safety Committees (JHSCs) in the healthcare sector and a paucity of information on how JHSCs are perceived in the workplace. OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to explore hospital worker, hospital management, and healthcare sector stakeholder views on the effectiveness of JHSCs in the acute healthcare setting. METHODS: The study used a qualitative descriptive design with: (1) nineteen focus groups and twenty two individual interviews in three hospitals of different sizes; and (2) eight individual interviews with external stakeholders. …RESULTS: Study findings showed gaps in awareness and understanding of the role and responsibilities of the Joint Health and Safety Committee. Some participants indicated that JHSCs lacked profile and had low visibility in the organization. Facilitators and barriers to JHSC effectiveness were investigated and measures to assess effectiveness identified. The attributes of a “gold standard” JHSC were outlined by respondents and can be used to develop an evidence-driven assessment tool to evaluate JHSCs. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicate both a continuing need for education and training related to JHSCs and the need to develop better tools to assess JHSC functioning and effectiveness. Show more

Keywords: Worker management committees, worker participation, healthcare, workplace safety, post-SARS

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152254

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 763-773, 2016

Authors: Finger, Monika | de Bie, Robert | Selb, Melissa | Escorpizo, Reuben

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the last few years the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) has become a widely known and useful reference classification in vocational rehabilitation. It would be equally important to know which aspects of work-related health information cannot be assigned to distinct ICF categories. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to examine the concepts derived from three studies conducted within the ICF Core Set for vocational rehabilitation project, which could not be linked to distinct ICF codes in order to complement the current understanding of functioning in vocational rehabilitation. METHODS: Secondary data …analysis of the concepts from the systematic literature review, expert survey and patient focus group study of the ICF Core Set for vocational rehabilitation project that were marked as nd  = not definable, nc  = not covered or pf  = personal factor. Nd- concepts were assigned to the biopsychosocial model of the ICF; additional ICF categories were formulated where needed. Nc -concepts were grouped into common themes not covered by the ICF. Pf -categories were linked to a proposed personal factors classification. RESULTS: 1093 nd- concepts were matched to overarching terms in the ICF, and “other specified”-categories were detailed. 1924 pf -concepts were linked to 31 second level categories of a proposed personal factors classification. 441 nc -concepts were grouped into six themes including the concept of well-being and attributes related to processes and time. CONCLUSIONS: With concepts that emerged from the secondary analysis of data gathered during the vocational rehabilitation ICF Core Set project, we have enriched the ICF model with constructs specific to vocational rehabilitation. However, additional research is needed to further explore personal factors specific to vocational rehabilitation. The influence of themes complementary to the ICF such as well-being and quality of life on return-to-work should be further investigated. Show more

Keywords: International Classification of Functioning, disability and health, content validity, vocational rehabilitation, return-to-work, personal factors, environmental factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152251

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 775-792, 2016

Authors: Tarquini, Matteo | Di Trani, Michela | Solano, Luigi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pennebaker’s writing technique has yielded good results on health, psychological and performance dimensions. In spite of the positive outcomes, the technique has rarely been applied directly within the workplace and its effects on burnout have never been tested. METHOD: 18 public employees subjected to work relocation were asked to write about their present work situation or another difficult event of their life (Writing Group), while another 17 were not assigned any writing task (Control Group). OBJECTIVE: To assess whether there was an improvement in burnout, alexithymia and psychological well-being in the Writing Group compared with …the baseline measurement and the Control Group. RESULTS: While the baseline levels in the Writing and Control Groups in the 3 dimensions considered were similar, scores in the Writing Group at both a second (1 month after the end of the procedure) and third measurement (7 months after the end) improved when compared with the baseline, whereas those in the Control Group worsened. CONCLUSIONS: Pennebaker’s writing technique appears to promote adaptive coping strategies in stressful situations, and to increase occupational and psychological well-being as well as the ability to process emotions. It also appears to buffer the negative effects of work-related stress. Show more

Keywords: Occupational well-being, burnout, alexithymia, work-related stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162259

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 793-804, 2016

Authors: de Carvalho, Maitê Peres | Schmidt, Lídia Garcia | Soares, Maria Cristina Flores

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dockworkers are subjected to intense physical labor which leads to frequent occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to measure the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) of temporary dockworkers and its influence on their quality of life. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study developed with temporary dockworkers in Brazil. Recruitment was done by inviting workers when they presented themselves for work at the trade union. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the Short-Form Health Survey were used. The association between the outcome and the different investigated factors was analyzed through Poisson Regression with …robust variance. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the data from the Short-Form Health Survey scale among the groups both with and without work-related musculoskeletal disorders. RESULTS: The sample was composed of 318 temporary dockworkers with a mean age of 48 years. WMSD prevalence was 37.4%. WMSD was associated with not practicing physical activity (PR = 2.03; p  = 0.005), participation in housework (PR = 1.88; p  = 0.029), taking care of preschool children (PR = 1.65; p  <  0.000) and handling heavy objects (PR = 1.83; p  = 0.007). The lumbar spine was the most frequently mentioned area of the body (22.5%) in the WMSD analysis. Workers without WMSD had higher (p  <  0.00) quality of life scale scores in relation to functional capacity, physical and social aspects, pain and vitality. CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight the relevance of developing action plans regarding the needs of this specific population of workers, especially concerning the reduction of risk factors. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, work-related musculoskeletal disorders, cumulative trauma disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162249

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 805-812, 2016

Authors: Abaraogu, Ukachukwu Okoroafor | Ezema, Charles Ikechukwu | Igwe, S.E. | Egwuonwu, Afamefuna Victor | Okafor, Udoka Chris

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Back pain has been identified as a common cause of disability in the working population. Automotive mechanics habitually use awkward back posture in their course of manual activity and hence may be at risk of work-related back pain. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence, pattern and severity of back pain among automotive maintenance mechanics, as well as the personal and job variables associated with or predicting occurrence of back pain. METHOD: Using a cross-sectional design, information about self-reported back pain and the associated variables were collected among 684 randomly recruited automotive mechanics. RESULT: Prevalence …of back pain was 76.02%; with the majority experiencing low back pain. 63.3% of the workers reported they limited their activity due to the back pain. Older workers (>50 years), daily work lasting ≥5 hours duration, no more than primary education, being normal weight, frequent use of kneeling and sustained postures, and lack of knowledge of ergonomic postures were associated with increased prevalence of back pain. Lack of job autonomy, inadequate task clarity, heavy physical work load, manual material handling, strenuous posture, noisy environment, vibrations, work schedule and inadequate auxiliary support were also associated with increased prevalence of back pain among the mechanics. CONCLUSION: Work-related back pain is prevalent among automotive maintenance mechanics. Work-related back pain is high among automotive maintenance mechanics. Workstation policy and legislation on reduction of risks with combined health literacy and ergonomic education programs in this occupational group are imperative. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal risk, back pain, manual handling, automobile servicing and repair

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162247

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 813-823, 2016

Authors: de Cordova, Pamela B. | Bradford, Michelle A. | Stone, Patricia W.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Shift workers have worse health outcomes than employees who work standard business hours. However, it is unclear how this poorer health shift may be related to employee work productivity. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the relationship between shift work and errors and performance. METHODS: Searches of MEDLINE/PubMed, EBSCOhost, and CINAHL were conducted to identify articles that examined the relationship between shift work, errors, quality, productivity, and performance. All articles were assessed for study quality. RESULTS: A total of 435 abstracts were screened with 13 meeting inclusion criteria. Eight …studies were rated to be of strong, methodological quality. Nine studies demonstrated a positive relationship that night shift workers committed more errors and had decreased performance. CONCLUSIONS: Night shift workers have worse health that may contribute to errors and decreased performance in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: After-hours, efficiency, productivity, safety

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162250

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 825-834, 2016

Authors: Gladman, Beverley | Waghorn, Geoff

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: High non-participation in the labour force and unemployment remain challenging for adults with serious mental illness. OBJECTIVES: This study examined the personal experiences of people with serious mental illness when seeking, obtaining and maintaining competitive employment. The aim was to increase understanding of personal experiences of employment and how these experiences can be used to inform the assistance provided in support of clients’ competitive employment goals. METHODS: Qualitative data from a two-year period were thematically analysed from one participating site in a multi-site trial of employment services integrated with public funded community mental health treatment …and care. RESULTS: Both positive and negative themes arose. Positive themes included: Aspirations for a better life, receiving feedback on good job performance, employment displacing preoccupation with illness, and employment improving self-esteem and reducing financial stress. Negative themes included stigma experiences, stress, and health difficulties. Both positive and negative experiences did not depend on type of employment service assistance nor key client characteristics such as age, sex, and diagnostic category. CONCLUSIONS: Despite its many benefits, employment can also increase the risk of negative personal experiences. These findings suggest that employment service providers could do more to assist people who commence employment, to reduce the risk of negative personal experiences and to enhance the benefits of competitive employment. Show more

Keywords: Employment, psychiatric disability, personal experiences, stigma, disclosure

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162252

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 835-843, 2016

Authors: Petit, Audrey | Mairiaux, Philippe | Desarmenien, Arnaud | Meyer, Jean-Pierre | Roquelaure, Yves

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Manual material handling remains a major cause of occupational accidents and diseases in various sectors and occupations. OBJECTIVE: This paper summarizes the main recommendations of the good practice guidelines of the French Society of Occupational Medicine for the risk assessment for back disorders in workers exposed to manual handling of loads. METHODS: The guidelines were written by a multidisciplinary working group of 24 experts, according to the Clinical Practice Guidelines method proposed by French National Health Authority, and reviewed by a multidisciplinary peer review committee of 50 experts. Recommendations were based on a large systematic …review of the international literature carried out from 1990 to March 2012 and classified (Grade A, B, C or expert consensus) according to their level of evidence. RESULTS: The main recommendations are a three-level hierarchical method of risk assessment based on participatory ergonomics and suggested assessment tools that can be used routinely by professionals of occupational health, workers themselves and their supervisors. CONCLUSION: These French guidelines are intended for professionals of occupational health in charge of the prevention of low back disorders. The recommended methods are applicable to other countries than France. Show more

Keywords: Low back injury, hierarchical rating method, guidelines, lifting hazard

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162258

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 845-850, 2016

Authors: Mehrdad, R. | Mazloumi, A. | Arshi, S. | Kazemi, Z.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGOUND: Work ability is an important issue from a social point of view, as it is essential for workers health and welfare. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine work ability among healthcare personnel and to investigate its relationship with demographic and lifestyle-related factors. METHODS: Data were collected using the Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaire among 517 personnel of a hospital in Tehran, Iran. RSULTS: Findings showed a mean WAI of 40.3 (±5.2) for the study population. Work ability was significantly lower in the older personnel and higher for men. A significant correlation was observed …between BMI and exercise activity and WAI score. Moreover, employees with experience of less than five years had significant higher work ability than those with 16–20 years of service. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the young study population, it seems the mean WAI is not as desirable. The use of lifestyle promoting programs, besides workplace interventions, can be an effective strategy to increase work ability among healthcare workers. Show more

Keywords: WAI, work demand, lifestyle, Ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162277

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 851-857, 2016

Authors: Mache, Stefanie | Bernburg, Monika | Groneberg, David A. | Klapp, Burghard F. | Danzer, Gerhard

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: These days physicians’ work is characterized by an increase in economic demands, pressure and challenges in establishing a balance between work and family life. The current study investigates the relationship between physicians’ job demands and resources, perceived job stress, work-family conflict, work engagement and job satisfaction. METHODS: 564 clinicians specialising in different medical fields participated in the cross-sectional study. Self-administered questionnaires, including the COPSOQ and the UWES- Scale were administered. RESULTS: Our results illustrated significant relationships between physicians’ work engagement and their job satisfaction as well as between job stress and work family conflict. Moreover, …perceived job stress moderated the effect of high job demands on work family conflict. In addition, significant gender differences have been found in perceived stress levels, work family conflict and work engagement. CONCLUSION: This study proves and verified associations between work engagement, work-family conflict, job demands and resources that may influence employees’ satisfaction. Implications for both working physicians and hospital management are given. Show more

Keywords: Job demands, job satisfaction, motivation, resources, stress, work-life balance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162257

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 859-869, 2016

Authors: Viotti, Sara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Correctional officers (COs) are exposed to various factors likely to jeopardize their health and safety. Even if numerous studies have been focused on work-related stress among COs, few studies have been carried out in Italy. OBJECTIVE: Indentify the work-related factors and comprehend how they negatively affect the COs’ psychological health in the Italian penal system. METHODS: A qualitative approach was employed. Twenty-eight COs employed in a detention block of an Italian jail were interviewed face-to-face. For the analyses of the text, Template Analysis technique was followed. RESULTS: The analyses of the text highlighted …six macro-categories and thirteen categories hierarchically linked to them: A) Intrinsic work-related factors with six categories: demanding contact with prisoners, high level of responsibility, health risks, critical events, lack of intellectual and social stimulation, and conflict value; B) Factors related to the type of contract and work organization: challenging working hours contrasted with social time, and relocation; C) Social factors: relationships with colleagues and hierarchy; D) Organizational factors: organizational injustice, E) External factors: negative social image; F) Physical environmental factors: physical structure of the prison building. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that COs are at high risk of stress. More specifically, the analyses highlighted that the most stressful part of the COs’ job concerns their relationship with the inmates. Show more

Keywords: Occupational risk factors, occupational health, jail, template analysis, italy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152238

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 871-884, 2016

Authors: Yuwanich, Nuttapol | Sandmark, Hélène | Akhavan, Sharareh

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational stress has been a health-related issue among nurses for many decades. Emergency department nurses are frequently confronted with occupational stress in their workplace; in particular, they encounter stressful situations and unpredictable events. These encounters could make them feel more stressed than nurses in other departments. Research considering occupational stress from the perspective of Thai emergency department nurses is limited. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore nurses’ perceptions of occupational stress in an emergency department. METHODS: A qualitative approach was used to gain an understanding of nurses’ experiences and perceptions regarding stress in their workplace. …Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Twenty-one emergency department nurses working in a public hospital in Thailand were interviewed, and the data were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS: The findings comprised three themes: (1) perceived stress, (2) consequences of stress, and (3) stress management. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study can be used by hospital management to help them adopt effective strategies, such as support programs involving co-workers/supervisors, to decrease occupational stress among emergency department nurses. Future research that explores each of the themes found in this study could offer a more comprehensive understanding of nurses’ occupational stress in the emergency department. Show more

Keywords: Stressor, workplace, nursing profession

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152181

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 885-897, 2016

Authors: Chan, Alan H.S. | Tsang, Steve N.H. | Hoffmann, Errol R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lever-operated taps have become more popular and are commonly used in operating theatres, food preparation areas and where users have poor strength; however, there is very little data available for user expectations on tap operation. Thus, an experiment on dual lever-operated water tap (faucets) was conducted with the aim of for providing information for improved design. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare different lever-tap designs and their stereotypes adopted by the end-user to operate them also to verify the stereotypes for increasing or decreasing the water flow. METHODS: 240 participants were requested to rotate the …lever tap to indicate direction for increasing and decreasing water flow with simulated hardware, using actual taps placed at the top of a simulated washbasin. Nine initial positions of the lever were used for increasing and decreasing flows, ranging from the ends of both levers facing outward from the bowl center to the ends of both levers facing inward. All levers operated in the horizontal plane. RESULTS: Strong stereotypes (greater than 80%) for several initial lever orientations were found for increasing water flow, especially when the initial lever end positions were facing outwards. However, for different initial positions at which participants were told that the water was flowing and the flow was to be decreased, no strong stereotypes existed. CONCLUSIONS: The stereotypes for increasing water flow of dual-lever taps were strong, whereas those for decreasing water flow were weak and hence the stereotype reversibility was also weak. In terms of user expectations, lever taps do not show any great advantage over cross-taps in terms of operator expectations for increasing and decreasing water flow. Show more

Keywords: Lever taps, stereotype strength, increasing/decreasing flow

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162273

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 899-907, 2016

Authors: Seomun, GyeongAe | Pyun, Sung-Bom | Lee, Jung-Ah | Kim, Eun-Jung | Noh, Wonjung

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There are advantages to using digital textbooks, but also health concerns yet to be evaluated. OBJECTIVE: This study examines the use of digital textbooks’ effects on carpal tunnel, considered one of the potential health risks in students using digital textbooks. METHODS: Data were obtained from 43 elementary school students in the sixth grade, selected from two groups who had used digital and paper textbooks, respectively. To assess carpal tunnel function, this study performed median motor nerve and median sensory nerve conduction studies. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the groups, indicating …that there were no functional differences related to carpal tunnel syndrome between the groups. CONCLUSION: Usage of digital textbook is expanding nationwide in the Republic of Korea. There is no short-term risk of carpal tunnel syndrome in this population of elementary school students. Show more

Keywords: Child, digital textbook, school

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162278

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 909-915, 2016

Authors: Chiang, Hsin-yu (Ariel) | Liu, Chien-Hsiou

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Tablet users may be at high risk of developing physical discomfort because of their usage behaviors and tablet design. OBJECTIVE: Investigate the usage of tablets, variations in head and neck posture associated with different tablet tilt angles, and the association of tablet use with users’ musculoskeletal discomfort. METHODS: A survey of users’ subjective perceptions conducted by questionnaire and measurements of users’ postures by a 3D Motion analysis system was used to explore the effects of tablet use. RESULTS: The questionnaire results indicated that over half of the participants reported physical discomfort after using …tablets, with the most prevalent discomfort in the neck and shoulders, and more intensity of discomfort for the back although only few participants experienced it. Chi-squared tests indicated that significantly more participants who tended to use tablet computers to play games reported having musculoskeletal discomfort after using a tablet. In addition, preferences for tablet tilt angles varied across tasks (reading and game playing). The results from the 3D motion analysis revealed that head and neck flexion angles were significantly reduced when the tablets were positioned at relatively steep tilt angles. Neck flexion angle was significantly higher in game playing. CONCLUSIONS: These data add information regarding to the usage of tablet and its associations with physical discomfort (significantly more participants who tended to use tablet computers to play games reported having musculoskeletal discomfort after using a tablet). Steep tilt angles (such as 60°) may cause tablet users to decrease their head and neck flexion angles, which could lead to a more neutral, effortless, and ergonomically correct posture. Maintaining proper neck posture during active activities such as game playing is recommended to avoid neck discomfort. Show more

Keywords: Tablet tilt angle, physical discomfort, head and neck posture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162274

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 917-925, 2016

Authors: Garton, Pam | Murphy, Gregory | O’Halloran, Paul

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychosocial factors have the greatest influence on work rehabilitation outcomes yet effective and efficient systems to manage these factors are not widely utilized in Work Injury Management. OBJECTIVE: To report on the development and validation of a comprehensive assessment tool with practical utility in identifying and measuring the biopsychosocial factors which are barriers to return to work and community. METHODS: Literature search identified many instruments designed to identify the presence of psychosocial factors impacting recovery and return to work following musculoskeletal injury. This research aimed to match assessment with intervention. In clinical practice over a …5 year period, this led to development of a composite questionnaire, the Abilita Rehabilitation Index, which was trialed with 43 adults participating in Occupational Rehabilitation. The validation data are based on the results of 957 case records of Occupational Rehabilitation participants. RESULTS: Examination of Cronbach coefficient alpha of the instrument indicates strong internal consistency (0.90) and factor analysis supports satisfactory construct validity of the domains (subscales) with factor loading scores ranging from 0.73 to 0.90. CONCLUSION: There is evidence that the proprietary Abilita Rehabilitation Index is a valid and reliable instrument to identify and measure the influence of psychosocial factors impacting an individual’s recovery and return to work. Automated reports generated from this tool provide an evidence-based resource to identify risk and support rehabilitation planning in Work Injury Management. Show more

Keywords: Return to work, musculoskeletal disorders, psychosocial factors, pain, biopsychosocial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162276

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 927-937, 2016

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 939-945, 2016

Article Type: Other

Citation: Work, vol. 53, no. 4, pp. 947-950, 2016