Work - Volume 54, issue 1

Authors: Azevedo, Rui | Teixeira, Nuno | Abade, Eduardo | Carvalho, Alberto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Loss of postural stability may result in postural imbalance and can increase the risk of slips and falls in the workplace. OBJECTIVE: This study intended to provide new insight into the effects of noise on postural stability when in the standing position. METHODS: Twenty healthy subjects voluntarily participated in this study. Their postural stability was analysed using a baropodometry platform under 4 different sets of conditions: i) standing position, without any noise and without wearing ear protectors; ii) standing position, without any noise and wearing ear protectors; iii) standing position, with noise and without …wearing ear protectors; iv) standing position, with noise and wearing ear protectors. RESULTS: The results showed that noise at different sound frequencies (400, 2000, 4000 and 8000 Hz) at a level of 95–100 dBA did not affect the participants’ postural stability when in the standing position. CONCLUSIONS: No significant differences were found in postural balance when participants were exposed to sound with or without ear protectors. Short duration, sensory inputs (i.e. vision) and the absence of physical workloads appear to facilitate postural stability. Show more

Keywords: Balance, noise, stability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162280

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 87-91, 2016

Authors: Jung, Hye-Sun | Lee, Bokim

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In South Korea, people are growing more and more interested in the early detection and prevention of health problems in shift workers. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate demographic, work-related and health-related factors relevant to functional dyspepsia and insomnia in shift-working nurses in South Korea. METHODS: The sample was comprised of 1431 nurses who worked rotating shifts in three large hospitals in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. The questionnaire consisted of factors assessing demographic, work-related and health-related characteristics. Rome III criteria and the Insomnia Severity Index were applied to identify functional dyspepsia and …insomnia, respectively. The survey was ongoing for approximately one month starting from 17 June 2013. RESULTS: The results of this study indicated that gender, body mass index, the number of night shifts worked, work-related stress, and regular dietary patterns were related to functional dyspepsia and insomnia in shift-working nurses. CONCLUSIONS: This study may help establish suitable working conditions and build workplace health promotion programs for shift-working nurses. Show more

Keywords: Shift work, occupational health, sleep disorders, digestive system diseases

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162283

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 93-101, 2016

Authors: Dorsey, Julie | Kaye, Miranda | Barratt, Jennifer | Biondi, Jennifer | Habrial, Amanda | Lane, Amanda | Marinelli, Victoria | Paulino, Tiffany | Singletary, Amanda

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Colleges have been experiencing reduced resource allocations, shifting student expectations, and organizational change. These changes increase employee stress at all levels. Ensuring that employee needs are being met and promoting a healthy and productive workforce has never been more important. OBJECTIVE: To investigate employees’ current perceptions of their work environments using the Work Environment Impact Scale-Self Rating (WEIS-SR). METHODS: Full and part time employees on a small college campus in the United States were surveyed using the WEIS-SR through an online survey program to protect their anonymity. RESULTS: Perception of staffing levels, …workplace support for a healthy lifestyle, number of supervisors, and personal health ratings contributed to employee perceptions of their work environment. There were also differences between staff, administration, and tenured and non-tenured faculty. CONCLUSIONS: From an occupational performance perspective, valuable information on employees’ levels of volition, performance capacity and habituation, and perceptions of their physical and social environment in relation to their work environments was obtained. Further support for the use of the WEIS-SR and psychometric properties of the instrument (reliability and validity) was obtained. Show more

Keywords: Job satisfaction, productivity, work-life balance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162281

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 103-111, 2016

Authors: Abaraogu, U.O. | Odebiyi, D.O. | Olawale, O.A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Bottling tasks postures may increase risk for developing work related musculoskeletal discomforts (WRMDs). Postural evaluation with epidemiological investigation for possible association may be appropriate for planning ergonomic programs. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate working postures and investigate associations between postural risks and prevalence of WRMDs among beverage bottling workers. METHOD: 301 beverage bottling company workers (8 work-stations) participated in this survey. They were required to complete a modified standard Nordic questionnaire, and their working postures examined utilizing Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). RESULTS: Postural risks ratings were high (8– 10) to very high (11– …15). Shoulder was the most commonly reported body part with WRMDs except at the carbonating workstations where Neck, Upper and Lower back discomforts were the most common (60.0%). The compounding workstations recorded the highest prevalence of WRMDs in all body regions except shoulder and wrist. There was a significant association between working posture and occurrence of WRMDs in at least one body part. Similarly, working posture was significantly associated with WRMDs at Neck, Upper back and Wrist. CONCLUSIONS: Working postures may be exposing beverage bottling workers to significant risk of developing WRMDs in at least one body part, more specifically, Shoulder, Neck, Upper back and Wrist. Intervention aimed at reducing postural risks is necessary. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, working posture, REBA

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162262

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 113-119, 2016

Authors: Sammito, S. | Gundlach, N. | Böckelmann, I.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physical demands on soldiers in mission have increased in the past decades. Physical fitness training is included into duty schedules in most armies in order to achieve and maintain a high physical fitness level, but at the same time involving the risk of sport injuries and subsequent sick days. OBJECTIVE: Due to missing data concerning soldiers’ sport injuries during duty and leisure time, epidemiology data is required for adequate prevention and therapy. METHODS: A prospective and descriptive epidemiology study has been conducted. All soldiers with sport injuries caused by duty sport (DS) or by …sport during leisure time (LTS) were recorded over three years in a German Army tank brigade. RESULTS: 673 injuries during DS and 600 injuries during LTS were analysed. While on duty, most of the injuries occurred during soccer (35.2%) and long distance running (30.2%). Ankle joint (27.3%) and knee (24.1%) were most affected. Soldiers with injuries to knee, ankle joint, shoulder or hand were absent from duty for a longer period of time. Similar results were found during LTS: Soccer (66.0%) was the most frequent cause for injuries and ankle joint (22.8%) and knee (20.3%) were the most affected body parts. CONCLUSIONS: Duty and leisure time sport mainly caused injuries to the lower limb. These injuries caused long absence from duty. Therefore, profound knowledge of physical examination, medical treatment and rehabilitation is necessary for the military physician in order to provide an adequate therapy. Show more

Keywords: Military fitness, physical demands, knee, ankle

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162294

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 121-126, 2016

Authors: Gregoski, Mathew J. | Newton, Janis | Ling, Catherine G. | Blaylock, Kathleen | Smith, Sheila A.O. | Paguntalan, John | Treiber, Frank A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: This pilot study investigated the effectiveness of a distance-based e-health program delivered across multiple rural Federal Credit Union worksites that focused on physical activity and dietary education. Program design and implementation were based on the premises of Social Impact Theory (SIT). METHODS: A sample of fifty-four participants (47 white. 7 black) aged 24 to 58 across different worksite locations completed 10 weeks of e-health delivered physical activity and dietary intervention. Pre to post weight changes were examined as a primary outcome. RESULTS: The findings showed that regardless of worksite location, participants on average reduced …their weight by 10.13 lbs if they completed both the exercise and lunch and learn components of the study compared to a decrease of 2.73 lbs for participants who chose not to engage in the exercise related activities. Participant dropout from either group was less than four percent. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study show the beneficial influence of physical activity integration using SIT upon distance programs targeting weight loss. In addition, the high adherence and weight loss success show promise and demonstrates the potential for e-health delivered exercise and lifestyle interventions. Further replication of results via additional randomized controlled trials is needed. Show more

Keywords: e-health, weight loss, worksite, social impact theory, m-health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162282

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 127-134, 2016

Authors: Gewurtz, Rebecca E. | Langan, Samantha | Shand, Danielle

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Many people with disabilities continue to encounter challenges trying to secure employment. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to synthesize existent knowledge about the hiring process for people with disabilities and explore research priorities from the perspective of key stakeholders. METHODS: A scoping review of the literature related to hiring processes and practices as they relate to people with disabilities was undertaken. As part of the scoping review, seven key informant consultations were conducted in order to gain further insight into the key issues identified by those most involved in the hiring process …for people with disabilities. RESULTS: Findings from the literature and consultations revolve around seven inter-related topics: 1) regulationsversus practice, 2) stigma, 3) disclosure, 4) accommodations, 5) relationship building and use of disability organizations,6) information and support to employers, and 7) hiring practices that invite people with disabilities. CONCLUSIONS: Although barriers to employment for people with disabilities have been examined in the literature, there remains a paucity of literature examining and evaluating strategies to improve hiring practices and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Future research must occur in consultation with key stakeholders including employers, people with disabilities, and employment support workers. Show more

Keywords: Employment support, hiring process, disability accommodations, disability disclosure, stigma

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162265

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 135-148, 2016

Authors: Zierold, Kristina M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Safety training is promoted as a tool to prevent workplace injury; however, little is known about the safety training experiences young workers get on-the-job. Furthermore, nothing is known about what methods they think would be the most helpful for learning about safe work practices. OBJECTIVES: To compare safety training methods teens get on the job to those safety training methods teens think would be the best for learning workplace safety, focusing on age differences. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was administered to students in two large high schools in spring 2011. RESULTS: Seventy …percent of working youth received safety training. The top training methods that youth reported getting at work were safety videos (42%), safety lectures (25%), and safety posters/signs (22%). In comparison to the safety training methods used, the top methods youth wanted included videos (54%), hands-on (47%), and on-the-job demonstrations (34%). This study demonstrated that there were differences in training methods that youth wanted by age; with older youth seemingly wanting more independent methods of training and younger teens wanting more involvement. CONLCUSION: Results indicate that youth want methods of safety training that are different from what they are getting on the job. The differences in methods wanted by age may aid in developing training programs appropriate for the developmental level of working youth. Show more

Keywords: Young workers, child labor, learning safe work practices

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162291

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 149-157, 2016

Authors: Rossettini, Giacomo | Rondoni, Angie | Schiavetti, Irene | Tezza, Sonia | Testa, Marco

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) affect physical therapists with loss of health status and social costs. MSD is a relevant problem in upper limb extremities, especially when associated with manual techniques. OBJECTIVE: The study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with thumb pain in Italian physiotherapists who perform manual therapy. METHODS: A self-administered questionnaire was sent by email, exploring demographics, thumb mobility, job, thumb pain, manual techniques, aggravating factors, management strategies and consequences of thumb pain. RESULTS: The survey was sent to 523 manual therapists, 219 of which fully completed it. …49.3% of respondents experienced thumb pain at least once in the previous 12 months and 70.8% at least once in their lifetime. Statistically significant associations suggest that within 12 months manual therapists with more than 5 years of experience are less likely to report thumb pain (6–10 years of work: OR = 0.408, 95% CI: 0.215–0.775; 11–20 years of work: OR = 0.346, 95% CI: 0.139–0.859), whereas those who performs trigger point pressure release (OR = 1.832, 95% CI: 1.005–3.340), trigger point ischemic compression (OR = 2.999, 95% CI: 1.184–7.597) and fascial neuro-connective manipulation (OR = 3.086, 95% CI: 1.346–7.077) are more likely to experience it. In terms of lifetime prevalence, female manual therapists and those who perform trigger point ischemic compression are more likely to suffer from thumb pain (females: OR = 2.569, 95% CI: 1.339–4.930; trigger point ischemic compression: OR = 2.878, 95% CI: 1.319–6.281). CONCLUSIONS: Special attention should be paid to prevention during manual skills training, since inexperience exposes manual therapist to a higher risk of developing thumb pain. Show more

Keywords: Physical therapists, upper extremity, occupational injuries, cumulative trauma disorders, physical therapymodalities

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162289

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 159-169, 2016

Authors: Shariat, Ardalan | Tamrin, Shamsul Bahri Mohd | Arumugam, Manohar | Ramasamy, Rajesh

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) was developed to assess the level of musculoskeletal discomfort among office workers related to their ergonomic situation. OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this initial study is to analyze the validity and dependability of the Malay translation of the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire. METHODS: The questionnaire was self-administered two times, with an interval of two weeks in order to evaluate the accuracy of the original findings with a retest. The study involved 115 participants. RESULTS: The range of Cronbach Alpha coefficient showed a considerable consistency of the …items for each sub-scale (Cronbach’s a  > 0.95). The range of Kappa coefficients was between (ICC = 0.690–0.949, p  < 0.001), (ICC = 0.801–0.979, p  < 0.001) and (ICC = 0.778–0.944, p  < 0.001) for frequency, severity and interference scales. CONCLUSIONS: This research, introduced the Malay-language version of the CMDQ (CMDQ-M) as the first formal validation of the CMDQ, and confirmed a high reliability and validity for the evaluation of musculoskeletal discomfort among the study population. Show more

Keywords: Office ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, physical conditioning, anatomy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162269

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 171-178, 2016

Authors: Pranav, P.K. | Patel, Thaneswer

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Manual orange harvesting is very laborious, time consuming and unsafe operation whereas neither mechanical harvesting nor mechanized hand harvesting is possible in north-east India due to its hilly terrains. The awkward postures and repetitive nature of work in orange harvesting, demands a comfortable and appropriate hand harvester for hilly region. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to develop a manual orange harvester for hilly regions considering the ergonomic parameters, and compare the performance with the existing models of the manual harvester. PARTICIPANTS: In this study twenty healthy experienced orchard workers (10 male and …10 female) participated who did not have any previous functional musculoskeletal disorders. METHODS: We developed a manual orange harvester by eliminating the problems associated with the existing harvesters. The developed model along with existing models was evaluated extensively in the field. During evaluations, heart rate of the subjects was measured and oxygen consumption was predicted to calculate the energy expenditure rate (EER) from the established relationship in the laboratory before the field experiments. Further, performance parameters of orange harvester i.e. plucking rate (PR), damaged quantity (DQ), plucking energy requirement (PER) and discomfort rating were also observed. RESULTS: The PR was 425, 300 and 287 pieces per hour for the developed model (DM), first existing model (EM1) and second existing model (EM2), respectively. The DM showed lower PER (2.14 kJ/piece) followed by EM2 (2.95 kJ/piece) and EM1 (4.02 kJ/piece) which is considered as overall performance as it includes energy per unit of plucking. Further, the body part discomfort score revealed that DM was more comfortable in use followed by EM2 and EM1. CONCLUSIONS: The performance of the DM was found better in terms of plucking rate, energy requirement and body part discomfort than the other existing models. Shoulders and neck are the most affected body parts where all subjects felt severe discomfort. Show more

Keywords: Manual harvester, orange, heart rate, energy expenditure rate, discomfort

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162285

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 179-187, 2016

Authors: Yuan, Guo | Jia, Libin | Zhao, Jian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Few studies concern the moderator effect of organizational identification between organizational justice and job satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the trilateral relationship among organizational identification, organizational justice and job satisfaction, especially focus on the moderator effect of organizational identification. METHODS: 354 staffs completed the measures of organizational justice, organizational identification and job satisfaction. RESULTS: Hierarchical regression analysis showed that organizational identification moderated the association between organizational justice and job satisfaction. When staffs reported a low level of organizational identification, those with high organizational justice reported higher scores in job satisfaction …than those with low organizational justice. However, the impact of organizational justice on job satisfaction was not significant in high organizational identification group. CONCLUSIONS: Organizational identification can significantly moderate the impact of organizational justice on job satisfaction. The significance and limitations of the results are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Occupational mental health, moderating effect, hierarchical regression analysis, Occupational happiness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162271

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 189-195, 2016

Authors: Minghelli, Beatriz | Oliveira, Raul | Nunes, Carla

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The adoption of incorrect postures or carrying overweight backpacks may contribute to the development of musculoskeletal disorders in school children. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the weight of backpacks and the postural habits adopted in schools by Portuguese adolescents, and their association with scoliosis and low back pain (LBP). METHOD: The sample comprised 966 Portuguese students, aged between 10 and 16 years. The instruments included a questionnaire to characterize the presence of LBP and the postural habits adopted by students, the weighing of backpacks and a scoliometer to evaluate scoliosis. RESULTS: No association was …observed between assuming incorrect postures and carrying overweight backpacks, in students with scoliosis. Students who adopted incorrect sitting postures had 1.77 times the risk (95% CI: 1.32–2.36; p  < 0.001) of developing LBP; those positioned incorrectly whilst watching TV and playing games had 1.44 times the risk (95% CI: 1.08–1.90; p  = 0.012) of developing LBP; and those standing incorrectly had 2.39 the risk (95% CI: 1.52–3.78; p  < 0.001) of developing LBP. CONCLUSIONS: The results revealed that students who sat with the spine positioned wrongly, as well as those who were standing incorrectly, were more likely to present with LBP. Show more

Keywords: Back disorders, behavioral risk factors, epidemiology, teenagers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162284

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 197-208, 2016

Authors: Tan, Heidi Siew Khoon | Yeo, Doreen Sai Ching | Giam, Joanna Yu Ting | Cheong, Florence Wai Fong | Chan, Kay Fei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Return-to-work (RTW) programmes for injured workers have been prevalent in Western countries with established work injury management policies for decades. In recent years, more Asian countries have started to develop RTW programmes in the absence of work injury management policies. However, few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of RTW programmes in Asia. OBJECTIVE: Return-to-work coordination has been found to be an important facilitator in RTW programmes. This study seeks to determine the effectiveness of a Return-to-work coordinator (RTWC) model of care in facilitating early RTW for injured workers in Singapore. METHODS: A randomized controlled …trial was used. 160 injured workers in a general hospital were randomly allocated to either control (receive usual hospital standard care) or intervention (assigned a RTWC) group. The RTWC closely supported RTW arrangements and proactively liaised with employers and healthcare professionals on RTW solutions for the injured workers. RESULTS: At three months post injury, workers in the intervention group RTW 10 days earlier than the control group, with a higher proportion of workers in the intervention group returning to modified jobs. There were no significant differences in the quality of life measures between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The addition of a RTWC into the hospital model of care is effective in facilitating early RTW for injured workers. This could be a potential model of care for injured workers in Asian countries where work injury management policies are not yet established. Show more

Keywords: Return to work, occupational rehabilitation, occupational therapy, worker’s compensation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162288

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 209-222, 2016

Authors: Švajger, Andreja | Piškur, Barbara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Few studies exist on the clinical utility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) in vocational rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore how Slovenian occupational therapists working in vocational rehabilitation, perceived the usefulness of the COPM in their everyday practice. METHODS: A qualitative study using two focus group discussions was conducted. The meaning condensation method was applied to analyze the data. RESULTS: Analysis revealed the following key themes: (1) the COPM facilitates collaboration with the client; (2) the COPM is a source of evidence and empowerment for occupational …therapists; (3) the challenges that arise when using the COPM; (4) the use of COPM requires training; and (5) using the COPM results and understanding their meaning. CONCLUSIONS: The study reveals new insights into using the COPM results in occupational therapy, especially into the contextual factors that influence the meaning and importance of work for clients in vocational rehabilitation. Show more

Keywords: Client-centered occupational therapy, empowerment, return to work, employment, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162287

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 223-233, 2016