Work - Volume 56, issue 1

Authors: Karen,

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162480

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 1-2, 2017

Authors: Martin-Calero, Piedad

Article Type: Research Article

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162476

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 3-7, 2017

Authors: Zhou, Ronggang | Chan, Alan H. S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In order to compare existing usability data to ideal goals or to that for other products, usability practitioners have tried to develop a framework for deriving an integrated metric. However, most current usability methods with this aim rely heavily on human judgment about the various attributes of a product, but often fail to take into account of the inherent uncertainties in these judgments in the evaluation process. OBJECTIVE: This paper presents a universal method of usability evaluation by combining the analytic hierarchical process (AHP) and the fuzzy evaluation method. By integrating multiple sources of uncertain information …during product usability evaluation, the method proposed here aims to derive an index that is structured hierarchically in terms of the three usability components of effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction of a product. METHODS: With consideration of the theoretical basis of fuzzy evaluation, a two-layer comprehensive evaluation index was first constructed. After the membership functions were determined by an expert panel, the evaluation appraisals were computed by using the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation technique model to characterize fuzzy human judgments. Then with the use of AHP, the weights of usability components were elicited from these experts. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Compared to traditional usability evaluation methods, the major strength of the fuzzy method is that it captures the fuzziness and uncertainties in human judgments and provides an integrated framework that combines the vague judgments from multiple stages of a product evaluation process. Show more

Keywords: Usability, fuzzy comprehensive evaluation, analytic hierarchy process (AHP)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162474

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 9-19, 2017

Authors: Zhou, Ronggang | Chan, Alan H. S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In order to take into account the inherent uncertainties during product usability evaluation, Zhou and Chan [1 ] proposed a comprehensive method of usability evaluation for products by combining the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy evaluation methods for synthesizing performance data and subjective response data. This method was designed to provide an integrated framework combining the inevitable vague judgments from the multiple stages of the product evaluation process. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: In order to illustrate the effectiveness of the model, this study used a summative usability test case to assess the application and strength of …the general fuzzy usability framework. To test the proposed fuzzy usability evaluation framework [1 ], a standard summative usability test was conducted to benchmark the overall usability of a specific network management software. Based on the test data, the fuzzy method was applied to incorporate both the usability scores and uncertainties involved in the multiple components of the evaluation. Then, with Monte Carlo simulation procedures, confidence intervals were used to compare the reliabilities among the fuzzy approach and two typical conventional methods combining metrics based on percentages. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: This case study showed that the fuzzy evaluation technique can be applied successfully for combining summative usability testing data to achieve an overall usability quality for the network software evaluated. Greater differences of confidence interval widths between the method of averaging equally percentage and weighted evaluation method, including the method of weighted percentage averages, verified the strength of the fuzzy method. Show more

Keywords: Keywords: Usability, fuzzy comprehensive evaluation, analytic hierarchy process (AHP)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162473

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 21-29, 2017

Authors: Davis, Janis | Burr, Macy | Absi, Maria | Telles, Rochelle | Koh, Howard

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This study introduces the contributions of occupational science (OS) to the preparation and support of astronauts during long duration space exploration. Given the hostile environment of space, it is not surprising that there is grave deterioration of both physical and mental health when off Earth. However, OS, through occupational therapy (OT), can identify strategies that maintain health and minimize disruptions in task performance for mission success. OBJECTIVE: To determine the gaps in NASA’s preparation of astronauts for long duration space exploration and the viable contributions of OT. Because occupational therapists are trained to address deficits and …modify environments to support meaningful engagement in occupations, the OT practitioner is well suited to address the disabling conditions astronauts experience in space. METHODS: A literature review revealing the challenges of deep space travel on humans was completed. A survey was also sent to (N = 170) occupational therapists worldwide to identify opinions about the profession’s involvement in deep space exploration. RESULTS: Ninety-seven percent (N = 163) of the participants believed that OS can inform long duration space travel. Approximately ninety-eight percent (N = 166) of respondents believed that OT interventions can be used on space travelers during long duration space flights. CONCLUSION : OT interventions can be implemented in any phase of space flight to increase the likelihood of mission success and astronaut safety and well-being. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, meaning, astronaut, health effects, Mars Mission, gravity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162465

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 31-43, 2017

Authors: Kearney, Gregory D. | Balanay, Jo Anne G. | Mannarino, Adam J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Each year, the average number of nonfatal occupational injuries among landscaping and groundskeeping workers are consistently above the total number of injuries for all other occupational injuries among worker in the U.S. From 2004 to 2007, fatalities among groundskeepers averaged 13.3 per 100,000 workers compared to an overall rate of 4.0 fatalities per 100,000 for all U.S. workers with the majority reported as either Hispanic or Latino. OBJECTIVE: The aims of this project were to describe the use of personal protective equipment and work safety climate among a sample of landscaping and groundskeeping workers employed by …public universities in North Carolina (N = 67). METHODS: Data from a cross-sectional study was collected among workers using group- administered surveys. Statistical associations with work safety climate were tested between personal, work and safety behavior characteristics with work safety climate scores using one-way ANOVA. RESULTS: Nearly half of workers (49.3%) reported experiencing one or more work-related injuries or illnesses within the past 12 months. While work safety practices were perceived as being very important to management, only 56.7% reported having regular safety meetings. In bivariate analysis, work safety climate scores were significantly lower among those reporting race “other than white” (P  = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study of its kind to evaluate work safety climate among landscaping and groundskeeping workers. Although self-reported safety practices were moderate, minority workers described their work safety climate as being poor. As a pilot study, these results suggest that employers of landscaping and groundskeeping workers could do more to improve safety climate within the organization with an emphasis on safety training for minority and underrepresented workers. Show more

Keywords: Occupational, environmental, landscaping, behavior

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162475

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 45-53, 2017

Authors: Hsieh, Yu-Chin (Jerrie) | Sönmez, Sevil | Apostolopoulos, Yorghos | Lemke, Michael Kenneth

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Latina hotel housekeepers’ social class, gender, race/ethnicity, nationality, and United States immigration status render them particularly vulnerable to workplace mistreatment. OBJECTIVE: We sought to reveal the array of policy- and interpersonal-related mistreatment experienced by Latina hotel housekeepers in the southeastern United States employed at 75 local hotels which included 4-star, 3-star, 2-star, and 1-star properties. METHODS: This ethnographic study involved 27 in-depth interviews with Latina hotel housekeepers. Using semi-structured in-depth interview guides, participants were interviewed until collected data reached saturation. Data were coded to explore themes and relationships for the housekeepers’ work environments, and …thick descriptions of these environments were developed. RESULTS: Participants ranged in work experience from 1 to 15 years, with all but one unable to reach full-time status, and were paid between $7.25 and $8.00 per hour. Policy-related phenomena, such as low pay, lack of paid sick leave or overtime, and absence of appropriate cleaning tools or protective equipment were all perceived as forms of mistreatment by Latina hotel housekeepers. Interpersonal mistreatment in the form of supervisor favoritism, unfair work assignments, biased allocation of cleaning supplies, disrespect, and verbal abuse due to ethnicity was also perceived. CONCLUSIONS: Latina hotel housekeepers endure mistreatment that impacts their psychosocial and physical occupational health. We provide recommendations to minimize workplace mistreatment and improve well-being of Latina hotel housekeepers. Show more

Keywords: Immigrant workers, hospitality workers, occupational health, psychosocial health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162467

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 55-65, 2017

Authors: de Almeida, Larissa Brentini | Vieira, Edgar Ramos | Zaia, José Eduardo | de Oliveira Santos, Branca Maria | Lourenço, Américo Riccardi Vaccari | Quemelo, Paulo Roberto Veiga

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Manufacturing footwear requires intense manual labor and high repetitions with low variability in function that may lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) symptoms and psychological stress. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a potential association between musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and perceived stress among footwear industry workers. METHODS: The Nordic General Questionnaire (NGQ) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) were completed by 357 footwear industry workers. The association between MSD and perceived stress was evaluated using the Chi-Square test and Odds Ratios along with their 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) were calculated. RESULTS: The twelve-month prevalence of …MSD symptoms among the respondents was 66% (n  = 236) and the symptoms were significantly associated with perceived stress (p  = 0.002, OR: 10, 95% CI: 1.7 to 60.6). The seven-day prevalence of MSD symptoms was 33% and the symptoms were also significantly associated with perceived stress (p  = 0.001, OR: 2.7, 95% CI:0.8 to 9.3). The association between perceived stress and MSD symptoms indicates a strong association between MSD symptoms and perceived stress levels. CONCLUSION: Considering that these problems are important determinants of worker’s health, a combined approach to reduce both stress and MSD symptoms is necessary for prevention and health promotion in the footwear industry. Show more

Keywords: Cumulative trauma disorders, occupational health, risk factors, stress.

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162463

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 67-73, 2017

Authors: d’Entremont, Lisette | Gregor, Megan | Kirou, Evangelia | Nelligan, Lindsay | Dennis, Donna

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Limited research exists on developmental milestones for productivity occupations throughout the paediatric lifespan, and negative connotations of work for children and youth may have contributed to a paucity of literature on the topic. OBJECTIVE: To ascertain what is currently known about the timing and types of engagement in productivity occupations in children and youth aged 4–19. METHODS: Literature referencing productive occupations in children and youth aged 4–19 was searched for this integrative review. Search terms were established based on paediatric age and occupational therapy descriptors, and terminology associated with productivity. Sixty-seven peer-reviewed articles were …analyzed according to the constant comparative method. RESULTS: Six core productive occupations emerged as avenues for productive engagement: paid work, school-related activities, caring for self and others, household chores, volunteering, and agricultural chores. A timeline was constructed to display common milestones for engagement in these occupations throughout the paediatric lifespan. Paediatric engagement was found to be influenced by personal (age, gender, child and youth perceptions, and safety considerations), and environmental (familial factors, parental perceptions, societal influences, and safety considerations) factors. CONCLUSIONS: Approaches to paediatric practice must account for the full spectrum of productive occupations children and youth engage in beyond the school context. Show more

Keywords: Work, occupational therapy, paediatric, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162466

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 75-89, 2017

Authors: Clarkson, Larissa | Naweed, Anjum | Whale, John J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Understanding what influences reporting is critical to underpinning the knowledge base around reporting behaviour and assisting in developing effective strategies to increase reporting levels within an organisation. Universities should investigate reporting behaviour in their own organisation and investigate why differences exist between different job profiles. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate hazard reporting in an Australian University and to assess what factors (employment type, level of safety responsibility and prior injury) influence reporting behaviour. METHODS: A total of 256 university employees and postgraduate students completed a survey on their hazard reporting. …RESULTS: The study indicated that demographic variables such as department type, role in the organisation, level of safety activity in role, and prior injury effected the reporting of hazards. Issues for non-reporting were also found to support findings in other studies. A unique finding was that while teaching-focused academics were not more likely to have been injured at work they were more likely to have reported a hazard, while researchers were less likely to report despite not being more or less likely to have received an injury. CONCLUSIONS: Although this study indicates there are differences in an organisations hazard reporting based on demographics and prior injury occurrence further research is required to evaluate the impact across other organisations and sectors. Show more

Keywords: Occupational safety research, incident reporting, reporting behaviour, near miss, higher education

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162470

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 91-97, 2017

Authors: Maradei, Fernanda | Quintana, Leonardo | Castellanos, Javier

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Discomfort perceived in activities where there is a prolonged sitting posture are normally compensated in a natural way by means of macro-repositioning movements in the seat. Nevertheless, evidence shows that such movements are not able to palliate discomfort due to lumbar pain. OBJECTIVE: This study involves research performed to demonstrate whether induced postural changes are able to mitigate this type of discomfort during a simulated driving activity. METHODS: Twenty-four subjects with lumbar pain (LBP) and without lumbar pain (WLBP) underwent 90 min of simulated driving activities while periodic variations of seat tilt (Tt) were implemented. …RESULTS: Discomfort perception due to lumbar pain significantly decreased in the case of Tt compared with the case of WTt (without seat tilt), and significant differences were found (p  = 0.02). However, treatments with Tt indicated that no substantial differences exist between LBP and WLBP subjects when considering discomfort perception due to lumbar pain and the erector spinae activity. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that periodic variations on seat tilt can help to reduce discomfort perception due to lumbar pain during driving activities, regardless of the health condition of the subject. Show more

Keywords: Low back pain, repositioning movements, sitting posture, seat tilt variation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162464

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 99-110, 2017

Authors: Widyanti, Ari | Hanna, | Muslim, Khoirul | Sutalaksana, Iftikar Zahedi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Objective measures have been shown to be equally sensitive in different cultures. However, these measures need special devices that are relatively expensive and need expertise to analyze the result. In Indonesia, there is a need for a sensitive and affordable mental workload measure. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the sensitivity of Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) in assessing mental workload in Indonesia. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 72 Indonesian students with normal visual capability. METHOD: Participants were asked to work on visual memory search task with a secondary task of counting with three different levels of …difficulty. GSR, Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and the NASA-TLX were administered prior to, during, and after the tasks. RESULTS: GSR measure was compared to NASA-TLX and HRV measures. Like the HRV, GSR showed to be sensitive in distinguishing rest and task condition significantly but not sensitive in distinguishing different levels of mental workload. In contrast, both the NASA-TLX and performance measure were sensitive in differentiating different levels of mental workload. CONCLUSIONS: GSR has potential as a simple, cost-effective tool for measuring mental workload in Indonesia. Show more

Keywords: Heart Rate Variability, the NASA-TLX, performance, visual task

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162479

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 111-117, 2017

Authors: Salminen, Simo | Perttula, Pia | Hirvonen, Maria | Perkiö-Mäkelä, Merja | Vartia, Maarit

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: It is claimed that haste has increased in modern work life. Only a few studies on professional drivers show that haste increases the risk of occupational injury. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between haste and occupational injury in a large, representative sample of Finnish employees. METHODS: The material comes from the Finnish National Work and Health, which have been carried every three years since 1977. The final study group included 12 926 currently working employees, aged 25 to 64. The data were collected through computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI). …RESULTS: Employees who worked in haste rather or very often (25%) were involved in occupational injuries significantly more often than those working in haste less often (8%, p  < 0.001). Constant interruptions increased the risk of occupational injury (OR = 12.06, 95% CI 8.48 to 17.16). Experiencing very much stress at work was also connected to occupational injury (OR = 2.80, 95% CI 1.13 to 6.95). Feeling negative emotions at work was related to haste (OR = 3.53, 95% CI 1.54 to 8.11). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a correlation between haste and occupational injuries. It focused on the participants’ need to hurry in order to get their job finished. However, the way in which different individuals experienced haste varied. Show more

Keywords: Accidents, employees, stress, interruptions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162471

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 119-124, 2017

Authors: Matérne, Marie | Lundqvist, Lars-Olov | Strandberg, Thomas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Many people who suffer an acquired brain injury (ABI) are of working age. There are benefits, for the patient, the workplace, and society, to finding factors that facilitate successful return to work (RTW). OBJECTIVE: The aim was to increase knowledge of opportunities and barriers for a successful RTW in patients with ABI. METHOD: Five men and five women with ABI participated. All had successfully returned to work at least 20 hours a week. Their experiences were gathered by semi-structured interviews, which were subsequently subjected to qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Three themes that …influenced RTW were identified: individually adapted rehabilitation; motivation for RTW; and cognitive and social abilities. An individually adapted rehabilitation was judged important because the patients were involved in their own rehabilitation and required individually adapted support from rehabilitation specialists, employers, and colleagues. A moderate level of motivation for RTW was needed. Awareness of the person’s cognitive and social abilities is essential, in finding compensatory strategies and adaptations. CONCLUSIONS: It seems that the vocational rehabilitation process is a balancing act in individualized planning and support, as a partnership with the employer needs to be developed, motivation needs to be generated, and awareness built of abilities that facilitate or hinder RTW. Show more

Keywords: Content analysis, vocational rehabilitation, qualitative interviews

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162468

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 125-134, 2017

Authors: Sundar, Vidya

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The provision of workplace accommodations is a proven strategy in supporting individuals with disabilities at work. Accommodations include a wide range of supports and strategies that are not very well defined beyond the Americans with Disabilities Act in the United States. Understanding the landscape of accommodations is important to measure the impact of programs that support employment of individuals with disabilities. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a scoping review and thematic analysis of research literature to identify how workplace accommodations are operationalized and to identify knowledge gaps in its conceptualization. METHODS: Keywords searches were conducted in …seven electronic databases. Title, abstract, and full text screening was conducted followed by a thematic analysis of the content to identify how workplace accommodations are operationalized. RESULTS: Overall, 47 studies were selected for review. 433 different types of accommodations were identified, of which assistive technology and specialized equipment represented the most frequently reported type of accommodation (40%). A very small percentage of studies included policy changes (9%) and human assistance (5%) as an accommodation strategy. CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review aims to clarify how accommodations are operationalized in the research literature. Key knowledge gaps identified include the systematic exclusion of certain types of supports or disability types. Show more

Keywords: Job accommodations, work adjustment, employment, disability, work, ADA

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162472

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 135-155, 2017

Authors: Soteriades, Elpidoforos S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workplace modified duty programs may provide reasonable accommodations to employees who have partial temporary job disability and could work on duty accommodations until they fully recover. However, little is known about the implementation barriers and effectiveness of such programs. OBJECTIVE: This study is aimed at evaluating the implementation of a modified duty program for employees in an oncology center. METHODS: A modified duty program for employees working at the Bank of Cyprus Oncology Center, a non profit organization with 200 employees located in the Republic of Cyprus was evaluated based on the health records …of the occupational medicine department. RESULTS: Employees’ participation in the program was 3%. A total of 12 employees participated (6 each year). The participants were all women and the mean participation period was 21.6 days (range 10 – 65 days). The two most frequent reasons for a modified duty assignment were pregnancy and back pain. Employees were assigned either on limited duties or on a combination of limited duties and reduced work hours. Employees reported being very satisfied with their participation based on a follow-up narrative oral assessment. CONCLUSION: The small participation rate does not allow for advanced statistical analyses. Further studies from larger organizations are urgently needed to evaluate the effectiveness of modified duty programs. The development of a legal framework for such modified duty programs in Cyprus as well as internationally may promote their implementation in order to facilitate the effective management of temporary partial job disability for the benefit of both employees and businesses. Show more

Keywords: Job disability, modified duty programs, policy, Cyprus

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162478

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 157-164, 2017

Authors: Agarwal, Neelam | Kumar, Vinod

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), or lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disorder. Individuals with lupus face unique psychosocial and emotional challenges such as living with the unpredictability of the disease, symptoms such as fatigue, pain and depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, and coping with stress. OBJECTIVE: This article attempts to shed light on the role that lupus plays in the lives of college students in their academics and other unique psychosocial needs. METHOD: The author uses a single case study method based on the lived experience of a student with lupus. The method adopted is used …as a means to provide anecdotal information about specific areas to consider when providing services to students living with this condition. RESULTS: Findings from this one case study identified some of the accommodations available to help students in higher education that may even vary for two students with same diagnosis of lupus. CONCLUSIONS: The paper presents some of the innovative strategies that can be used by practitioners while working with these students in higher education. These strategies can provide helpful support for students with lupus with the recommended academic accommodations. Show more

Keywords: Postsecondary education, students with disabilities, assistive technology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162477

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 165-173, 2017

Authors: Mohammadi, Somayeh | Mokhtarinia, Hamidreza | Nejatbakhsh, Reza | Scuffham, Andrew

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: More than 90% of the elementary school students in the world and most of the Iranian students use backpacks. Heavy school bags, failure to apply ergonomics standards in student’s backpacks, and also mismatch between anthropometrics dimensions and schoolbag size are important issues for children’s health. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to gather baseline information on the average weight carried by female primary students. It also aimed to evaluate ergonomics standards for student backpacks. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 212 Iranian girl students aged 6– 11 years. Body weight and bag …weight were measured with electronic scales and body mass index calculated with WHO software 2007. A questionnaire was constructed to gather information about the backpacks. Body dimensions were measured with VICON motion Analyze system (460). Ergonomics factors were recorded using a checklist. RESULTS: 80.8% of the students used a backpack at a higher weight than recommended by the standards of 10% of body weight. The most common type of schoolbag used was double strap packs (92.5%). The majority of the students carried packs on their backs; however, most of them did not make any adjustments (79.8%). The results have shown a mismatch between the anthropometric measures and the student’s backpack dimensions. CONCLUSIONS: Parents, students and school staff should be informed about these critical issues as well as suitable controls should be implemented in buying and using the bags. Show more

Keywords: Anthropometry, backpack, student, weight

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162469

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 1, pp. 175-181, 2017