Work - Volume 54, issue 3

Authors: de Lima Brasil, Evi Clayton | de Araújo, Lindemberg Medeiros | de Toledo Vianna, Rodrigo Pinheiro

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Construction workers have intensive contact with their workplace and are possibly susceptible to Nutritional and Food Insecurity. OBJECTIVE: This paper assessed the Food Security status, diet and anthropometric measures of workers in the Construction Industry living in the city of João Pessoa, PB. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 59 workers housed at construction sites. The workers were given the Brazilian Scale for Measuring Food Insecurity and Nutrition, had anthropometric measures taken and completed the Diet Quality Index, comparing their eating at the construction site and at home. Statistical analyses described the mean, standard deviation, …frequency and Pearson correlations. RESULTS: Food Insecurity was reported by 71.2% of the workers, and 69.5% were overweight. The mean values of the Healthy Eating Index suggested that the workers’ diets were in need of modification. There were statistically significant inverse associations among the Healthy Eating Index and Body Mass Index, waist circumference, percentage of total fat and cholesterol. CONCLUSIONS: Values obtained using the Scale showed Food Insecurity coupled with high excess weight and dietary inadequacies, revealing that these workers are at risk for health problems. Show more

Keywords: Construction industry, food security, nutritional assessment, food consumption

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162335

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 601-608, 2016

Authors: Truszczyńska, Aleksandra | Scherer, Anna | Drzał-Grabiec, Justyna

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A job requiring stooping, lifting, carrying loads and multiple repetitions of the same movement patterns leads to overloading the musculoskeletal system. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the work-related load experienced by physiotherapists and the occurrence of the musculoskeletal system overload. METHODS: The study included 108 young physiotherapists, 69 women and 39 men, aged from 25 to 35 years (mean 27.12 ± 3.72 years). The study used an anonymous questionnaire and Quick Exposure Check. RESULTS: The most common musculoskeletal complaints were as follows: 70 physiotherapists (64.8%) reported low back …pain, 60 (55.6%) cervical pain, and 34 (31.5%) pain in the wrists and fingers. Statistically significant positive correlations were revealed between the number of years worked in the profession and shoulder pain. The number of hours of work per week was positively correlated with the occurrence of pain in all analyzed body areas. Professional experience was negatively correlated with the level of stress felt. Physiotherapists dealing with manual therapy and exercise physiotherapy were particularly vulnerable to musculoskeletal overload. CONCLUSIONS: Popularization of knowledge regarding ergonomics among physiotherapists could reduce the occurrence of musculoskeletal overload. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, work physiology, physiotherapy, work-related musculoskeletal disorders, spine, upper extremity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162343

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 609-616, 2016

Authors: López-Alonso, M. | Ibarrondo-Dávila, M.P. | Rubio, M.C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Estimating health and safety costs in the construction industry presents various difficulties, including the complexity of cost allocation, the inadequacy of data available to managers and the absence of an accounting model designed specifically for safety cost management. Very often, the costs arising from accidents in the workplace are not fully identifiable due to the hidden costs involved. OBJECTIVE: This paper reviews some studies of occupational health and safety cost management and proposes a means of classifying these costs. METHODS: We conducted an empirical study in which the health and safety costs of 40 …construction worksites are estimated. RESULTS: A new classification of the health and safety cost and its categories is proposed: Safety and non-safety costs. CONCLUSIONS: The costs of the company’s health and safety policy should be included in the information provided by the accounting system, as a starting point for analysis and control. From this perspective, a classification of health and safety costs and its categories is put forward. Show more

Keywords: Occupational risk, prevention management, construction industry, accounting analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162319

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 617-630, 2016

Authors: Harker, Rachel | Pidgeon, Aileen M. | Klaassen, Frances | King, Steven

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Human service professionals are concerned with the intervention and empowerment of vulnerable social populations. The human service industry is laden with employment-related stressors and emotionally demanding interactions, which can lead to deleterious effects, such as burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Little attention has been given to developing knowledge of what might enable human service workers to persist and thrive. Cultivating and sustaining resilience can buffer the impact of occupational stressors on human service professionals. One of the psychological factors associated with cultivating resilience is mindfulness. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this current research is to improve our …understanding of the relationship between resilience, mindfulness, burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and psychological distress among human service professionals. METHODS: The current study surveyed 133 human service professionals working in the fields of psychology, social work, counseling, youth and foster care work to explore the predictive relationship between resilience, mindfulness, and psychological distress. RESULTS: The results showed that higher levels of resilience were a significant predictor of lower levels of psychological distress, burnout and secondary traumatic stress. In addition, higher levels of mindfulness were a significant predictor of lower levels of psychological distress and burnout. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that cultivating resilience and mindfulness in human service professionals may assist in preventing psychological distress burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Limitations of this study are discussed together with implications for future research. Show more

Keywords: Work, stress, mental health, healthcare workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162311

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 631-637, 2016

Authors: Kim, Hwan | Lewko, John | Garritano, Enzo | Sharma, Bhanu | Moody, Joel | Colantonio, Angela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Electrical contact is a leading cause of occupational fatality in the construction industry. However, research on the factors that contribute to electricity-related fatality in construction is limited. OBJECTIVES: To characterize, using an adapted Haddon’s Matrix, the factors that contribute to electricity-related occupational fatalities in the construction industry in Ontario, Canada. METHODS: Coroner’s data on occupational electricity–related fatalities between 1997-2007 in the construction industry were acquired from the Ontario Ministry of Labour. Using an adapted Haddon’s Matrix, we characterized worker, agent, and environmental characteristics of electricity-related occupational fatalities in the province through a narrative text …analysis. RESULTS: Electrical contact was responsible for 15% of all occupational fatalities among construction workers in Ontario. Factors associated with said occupational fatalities included direct contact with electrical sources, lower voltage sources, and working outdoors. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a profile of electricity-related occupational fatalities among construction workers in Ontario, and can be used to inform safety regulations. Show more

Keywords: Working outdoors, environmental factors, Haddon’s Matrix

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162336

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 639-646, 2016

Authors: de Weerd, Bas J. | van Dijk, Maarten K. | van der Linden, Jolijn N. | Roelen, Corné A.M. | Verbraak, Marc J.P.M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dialogue between supervisor and employee is of great importance for occupational rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a convergence dialogue meeting (CDM) of employee, therapist and supervisor aimed at facilitating return to work (RTW) as part of cognitive-behavioural treatment. METHODS: Randomized controlled trial including 60 employees sick-listed with common mental disorders and referred for specialized mental healthcare. Employees were randomly allocated either to an intervention group (n  = 31) receiving work-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy plus CDM or a control group (n  = 29) receiving work-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy without CDM. RESULTS: The time to first …RTW was 12 days shorter (p  = 0.334) in the intervention group, although full (i.e., at equal earnings as before reporting sick) RTW took 41 days longer (p  = 0.122) than the control group. The odds of full RTW at the end of treatment were only 7% higher (p  = 0.910) in the intervention group as compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: CDM did not significantly reduce the time to RTW. We recommend that therapists who are trained on CDM focus on barriers and solutions for RTW. Show more

Keywords: Absenteeism, cognitive therapy, mental health, return to work, sick leave

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162307

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 647-655, 2016

Authors: Jacukowicz, Aleksandra

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musicians face numerous psychosocial and physical demands at work resulting in high prevalence of musculoskeletal problems. Unlike physical risks, little is known about psychosocial work factors influencing such health problems in this particular group. OBJECTIVE: The paper aimed to identify psychosocial work demands resulting in musculoskeletal problems among musicians. METHODS: A systematic review was undertaken to find data linking psychosocial work demands or stress with musculoskeletal disorders among musicians. RESULTS: The exploration of databases resulted in nine research studies linking psychosocial aspects of work or stress with musculoskeletal problems among musicians. The analyzed …studies linked psychosocial aspects with musculoskeletal problems in three ways – showing proportions of people indicating particular causes of pain, indicating correlations between these variables or performing regression analysis showing psychosocial predictors of musculoskeletal pain. CONCLUSIONS: Only a few studies have undertaken the issue of psychosocial risk factors for musculoskeletal problems among musicians. The results revealed that some psychosocial aspects of work, e.g. long hours at work, work content, high job demands, low control/influence, lack of social support, were related to musculoskeletal pain, however, the methods and results were inconsistent. The extant studies employed variety of definitions of psychosocial aspects that hindered the possibility for consistent conclusions. Basing on those conclusions, future directions were offered. Show more

Keywords: Work demands, health problems, stressors, occupational diseases, work-related stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162323

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 657-668, 2016

Authors: Ruseckaite, Rasa | Collie, Alex | Prang, Khic-Houy | Brijnath, Bianca | Kosny, Agnieszka | Mazza, Danielle

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Among workers with injuries who seek compensation, a general practitioner (GP) usually plays an important role in a person’s return to work (RTW) by advising if the worker is unfit for work (UFW), is able to work on alternate (ALT) duties or is fit for work and also providing referrals to other health service providers. OBJECTIVE: To examine patterns of health service utilization (HSU) in workers with injuries by condition and type of certificate issued by GP. METHODS: Zero-inflated negative binomial and logistic regressions were conducted for major healthcare services accessed over the 12-month …period post-initial medical examination. Services included GP consultations, pharmacy, physiotherapy, occupational rehabilitation and psychology. RESULTS: The average number of physiotherapy services was greater in workers with musculoskeletal disorders, back pain and fractures. In contrast, the median number of psychological services was greater in mental health conditions (MHC). Workers with ALT certificates were more likely to use GPs, pharmacy and physiotherapy services. CONCLUSION: HSU in the 12 months post-initial medical certification varied substantially according to the worker’s condition, certificate type, age, gender and residential location. Understanding these factors can facilitate more appropriate resource allocation; strategic thinking on optimal use of particular health services and enables better targeting of particular provider groups for more education on the health benefits of RTW. Show more

Keywords: Injury, workers’ compensation, return-to-work, mental health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162312

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 669-678, 2016

Authors: Cornell, David J. | Gnacinski, Stacy L. | Zamzow, Aaron | Mims, Jason | Ebersole, Kyle T.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Previous research has demonstrated links between musculoskeletal injury risk and measures of obesity and movement efficiency among the firefighter population. However, the influence of obesity on movement efficiency among firefighter recruits remains uninvestigated. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of obesity on movement efficiency measures among firefighter recruits. METHODS: Measures of obesity were collected among 73 male firefighter recruits. Participants were grouped into standard body mass index (BMI) categories (normal, overweight, obese). Differences in Total Functional Movement Screen (FMS) scores and Y-Balance Test (YBT) composite scores were examined between BMI categories. In addition, the relationships …between measures of obesity and movement efficiency were also examined. RESULTS: No significant differences in movement efficiency measures were identified between BMI categories (p  > 0.05). However, significant bivariate correlations were identified between BMI (kg/m2 ) and Total FMS score (r  = –0.235, p  = 0.045), as well as between fat-free mass (FFM) and Total FMS score (r  = –0.231, p  = 0.049), when examined among all participants. CONCLUSIONS: BMI may influence measures of movement efficiency among firefighter recruits to a lesser extent than among other previously examined populations. Future research should examine the influence of other unexamined physiological variables on movement efficiency. Show more

Keywords: Obesity, functional movement screen, Y-balance test

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162306

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 679-687, 2016

Authors: Neupane, Subas | Nygård, Clas-Håkan | Oakman, Jodi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal pain is a major occupational problem. Those with pain in multiple sites usually report worse health outcomes than those with pain in one site. OBJECTIVE: This study explored prevalence and associated predictors of multi-site pain in health care sector employees. METHOD: Survey responses from 1348 health care sector employees across three organisations (37% response rate) collected data on job satisfaction, work life balance, psychosocial and physical hazards, general health and work ability. Musculoskeletal discomfort was measured across 5 body regions with pain in ≥ 2 sites defined as multi-site pain. Generalized linear models …were used to identify relationships between work-related factors and multi-site pain. RESULTS: Over 52% of the employees reported pain in multiple body sites and 19% reported pain in one site. Poor work life balance (PRR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.06–5.14). physical (PRR = 7.58, 95% CI = 4.89–11.77) and psychosocial (PRR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.00–2.57) hazard variables were related to multi-site pain (after controlling for age, gender, health and work ability. Older employees and females were more likely to report multi-site pain. CONCLUSION: Effective risk management of work related multi-site pain must include identification and control of psychosocial and physical hazards. Show more

Keywords: Physical, psychosocial, hazards, multi-site pain, musculoskeletal disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162320

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 689-697, 2016

Authors: Silver, Tobin A. | Mokha, G. Monique | Peacock, Corey A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Trips are common in and out of the workplace with most people recovering to avoid a subsequent fall. However, when the recovery attempt fails, a fall can be detrimental. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine adaptations to the elevating response during obstacle tripping while walking on a treadmill. Additionally, the possible transfer effects from adapted responses in the lab to the worksite are explored. METHODS: Fourteen healthy participants that covered the general working age range (20–70 yrs.) were presented with two different types of tripping obstacles while walking. RESULTS: …Elevating the foot over the obstacle was expected due to all trips being induced during early swing phase (first 33% of the swing phase). However, in addition to the elevating strategy, a novel “push” strategy was observed in all but three participants. CONCLUSION: The current study provided support that obstacle type influences the behavioral response after a trip. Therefore, obstacles that catch the shoe should be considered when designing functional fall programs. Furthermore, information from the current study is useful for establishing guidelines when developing a fall prevention program in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: Obstacle training, workplace stumbles, push response, trip response strategies

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162321

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 699-707, 2016

Authors: Huot, Suzanne | Chen, Xiaojie | King, Christiana | Painter-Zykmund, Ellen | Watt, Kaitlin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Immigrants engage in complex integration processes that are mediated through daily occupations. A central element of socio-economic integration relates to labor market preparation and participation, including job searching, learning cultural values in the workplace, pursuing credential recognition and engaging in volunteering roles and paid employment. OBJECTIVE: To examine how immigrants experienced occupations relating to preparing for, seeking, and gainingemployment. METHODS: A secondary analysis using whole text analysis and line-by-line coding of twenty verbatim transcripts from interviews held with ten recently arrived immigrants to London, Ontario, Canada. Sessions consisted of a narrative interview, creation of …an occupational map and a semi-structured follow-up interview. RESULTS: The participants’ employment related occupations were characterized by the overarching theme of ‘making difficult decisions’. This main theme was connected to four related sub-themes: 1) mechanisms of exclusion, 2) learning the host country’s culture, 3) the influence of one’s outlook on the decisions made, and 4) accessing support. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies factors influencing immigrants’ experiences of labor market preparation and participation. ‘Making difficult decisions’ was faced by all participants throughout the process of becoming part of the Canadian workforce and, ultimately, society at large. Show more

Keywords: Immigration, labor market, occupation, qualitative, secondary analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162316

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 709-720, 2016

Authors: Stergiou-Kita, Mary | Mansfield, Elizabeth | Colantonio, Angela | Moody, Joel | Mantis, Steve

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Electrical injuries are a common cause of work-related injury in male dominated skilled trades. OBJECTIVES: In this study we explored how issues of gender, masculinities and institutional workplace practices shape expectations of men and their choices when returning to work following a workplace electrical injury. METHODS: Twelve workers, who suffered an electrical injury, and twelve employer representatives, completed semi-structured interviews. Using thematic analysis we identified key themes related to how masculinities influenced men’s health and safety during the return to work process. RESULTS: Strong identification with worker roles can influence injured workers …decisions to return to work ‘too early’. A desire to be viewed as a strong, responsible, resilient worker may intersect with concerns about job loss, to influence participants’ decisions to not report safety issues and workplace accidents, to not disclose post-injury work challenges, and to not request workplace supports. Institutionalized workplace beliefs regarding risk, de-legitimization of the severity of injuries, and the valorization of the “tough” worker can further re-enforce dominant masculine norms and influence return to work processes and health and safety practices. CONCLUSIONS: Workplaces are key sites where gender identities are constructed, affirmed and institutionalized. Further research is warranted to examine how established masculine norms and gendered workplace expectations can influence workplace health and safety in male dominated high risk occupations. Future research should also evaluate strategies that encourage men to discuss post-injury work challenges and request supports when work performance or health and safety issues arise during the return to work process. Show more

Keywords: Men’s health, occupational health and safety, masculinity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162322

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 721-733, 2016

Authors: Lexén, Annika | Hofgren, Caisa | Stenmark, Richard | Bejerholm, Ulrika

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Employment is central to recovery in schizophrenia, but little attention has been paid to its relationship with cognitive functioning. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study adds to the knowledge base of relationships between cognitive functioning and gaining competitive employment, work hours per week, and monthly income among people with schizophrenia in vocational rehabilitation. It also examines which area of cognitive function may be decisive for gaining employment. METHODS: Thirty-nine vocational rehabilitation participants were administered a cognitive battery based on MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery. Socio-demographic, clinical, and vocational data were gathered and analyzed with nonparametric statistics. …RESULTS: Individuals with competitive employment differed from those without competitive employment in attention and psychomotor speed, delayed verbal recall, immediate visual recall, and planning, reasoning, and problem-solving. Higher scores in immediate and delayed verbal recall and planning, reasoning, and problem-solving correlated with more work hours per week and higher income. Immediate visual recall was related to higher income. Higher scores in planning, reasoning, and problem-solving was an indicator of competitive employment (OR = 1.48). CONCLUSIONS: Higher order cognitive functioning of planning, reasoning, and problem-solving may have a central role in gaining employment. The findings should be considered in compensation for or improving cognitive functions for vocational rehabilitation participants. Show more

Keywords: Psychiatric disability, severe mental illness, vocational rehabilitation, return to work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162318

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 735-744, 2016

Authors: Joshi, Anurag | Kiran, Ravi | Singla, Harish Kumar | Sah, Ash Narayan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This paper introduces the concept of Deep Breathing and its applications as one of the means towards stress management through regulation of blood pressure among Indian College Engineering students. The underlying concept of deep breathing is that the relation between emotions and breathing is two way, i.e. not only do emotions affect the breathing, but controlled deep breathing also has an effect on emotions. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the paper is to find out whether deep breathing technique is able to control blood pressure, and in turn, the level of stress. METHODS: Sample students …had a selection through initial screening and the students who reported high mental stress during interview were selected for the main drills. All the readings are taken using a sphygmomanometer (digital blood pressure meter). Students’ t test are used for the purpose of hypothesis testing. RESULTS: The results indicated that the deep breathing technique provided significant results. CONCLUSION: It is recommended that this amazingly simple and yet highly effective ancient technique of deep breathing become part of students’ routine curriculum. The paper aims at spreading the awareness of this yogic technique as one of the modes of Stress Management amongst Indian college students. Show more

Keywords: Ordinary breathing, deep breathing, engineering students, mental wellness, reducing stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162308

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 745-752, 2016

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

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The accuracy of instruments such as questionnaires and the goniometer are critical for measuring the severity of musculoskeletal disorders among office workers. OBJECTIVE: To determine the reliability of the Cornell questionnaire, goniometer and Borg questionnaire, which are commonly used instruments to assess the severity of musculoskeletal disorders in office workers. METHODS: One hundred twenty healthy office workers, body mass: 87.1 ± 10.3 (kg), age: 27 ± 5.1 (years), height: 1.78 ± 0.16 (m), (mean ± SD), who had at least 1 year of experience in office working, were chosen randomly. A plastic goniometer (30" …height) was used three times to measure the range of motion in the neck, hip, knee and shoulder area, with a period of one hour between measurements to evaluate the test-retest accuracy. The Cornell questionnaire was used to measure the severity of musculoskeletal disorders and the Borg scale was used to measure perceived exertion. The questionnaires were filled out twice with a gap of 2 weeks between measurements. RESULTS: The Inter-class Correlation Co-efficient (ICC) indicated that all instrument sub-scales showed high levels of repeatability. The ICC coefficient was (0.805–0.954, p <0.001) for the Borg scale, (0.785–0.978, p <0.001) for the goniometer and (0.883–0.975, p <0.001) for the Cornell questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS: The Cornell questionnaire, goniometer and Borg questionnaire all exhibit high reliability when used for the evaluation of the severity of musculoskeletal disorders in office workers. Show more

Keywords: Cornell questionnaire, reliability, goniometer, Borg questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162313

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 753-758, 2016

Authors: Koca-Atabey, Müjde

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The story of Hakan profoundly calls attention to the dialectical relationship between the macro and the micro influences on the social and political situated nature of disability, work life expectations and the transformative power of life-long learning. All of these are reflected in Hakan’s journey and his capacity to self-manage his needs and adapt in spite of disability adversity and impairment challenges at the turning points in his life. He used his ingenuity when faced with challenges by tapping into non-disabling environments (finding a university program that fit with his needs and he was able to meet standard examination expectations) …and familiar human relationships (finding friends or family that agreed to read to him). His early experiences in the formal and informal labour markets that were available to him provided grounding into various workplace acumen and social requirements. In effect these experiences were part of his early employment socialization that are often overlooked as essential to being ready to shift from a job to deciding on a career in a changing labour economy. While Hakan developed his capacity and competencies to be ready for work in a viable career, the policy’s of prescriptive employment for the disabled shifted slightly to open up the door to more persons with impairments. Read on to find out the details of Hakan’s numerous experiences with turning points, shifts and his efforts to persist in becoming a teacher. Following this article there are reflective questions for deeper consideration and contemplation of the many relationships that shaped the journey. Show more

Keywords: Disability, blindness, work experiences, work orientations, social, psychological and political features of disability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162309

Citation: Work, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 759-764, 2016