Work - Volume 56, issue 2

Authors: Karen,

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172499

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 183-183, 2017

Authors: Lamothe, Josianne | Guay, Stephane

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workplace violence (WPV) has been associated with turnover intentions and reduced job satisfaction, yet the mechanisms behind such associations are still nebulous. Studying the way people make sense of their work in the context of WPV could lead to a better understanding of its consequences. PURPOSE: The objective of this exploratory study is to identify key features of meaning of work (MOW) in a group of healthcare workers and explain how these features can change following an act of WPV. METHODS: Researchers recruited 15 healthcare workers (11 women – 4 men) who had previously …been the victim of a serious physical or sexual assault by a patient. A phenomenological approach was used. RESULTS: Two main themes were identified: MOW and relationships with others and MOW and relationship with the self. WPV might have the potential to trigger negative changes in the way some workers perceive their colleagues, their patients and their organisation. It can also interfere with their sense of self-accomplishment; all workers however, were still able to find positive meaning in ‘contribution’ and ‘autonomy’. CONCLUSION: WPV has the potential to change certain aspects of MOW that could help explain why WPV is associated with lowered job satisfaction, compassion fatigue, and higher turnover. Also, finding meaning through contribution and autonomy can be a form of resilience. Show more

Keywords: Workplace violence, health personnel, job satisfaction, resilience, professional burnout

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172486

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 185-197, 2017

Authors: Stern, Steven E. | Chobany, Chelsea M. | Beam, Alexander A. | Hoover, Brittany N. | Hull, Thomas T. | Linsenbigler, Melissa | Makdad-Light, Courtney | Rubright, Courtney N.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: We have previously demonstrated that when speech generating devices (SGD) are used as assistive technologies, they are preferred over the users’ natural voices. OBJECTIVE: We sought to examine whether using SGDs would affect listener’s perceptions of hirability of people with complex communication needs. METHODS: In a series of three experiments, participants rated videotaped actors, one using SGD and the other using their natural, mildly dysarthric voice, on (a) a measurement of perceptions of speaker credibility, strength, and informedness and (b) measurements of hirability for jobs coded in terms of skill, verbal ability, and interactivity. …Experiment 1 examined hirability for jobs varying in terms of skill and verbal ability. Experiment 2 was a replication that examined hirability for jobs varying in terms of interactivity. Experiment 3 examined jobs in terms of skill and specific mode of interaction (face-to-face, telephone, computer-mediated). RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Actors were rated more favorably when using SGD than their own voices. Actors using SGD were also rated more favorably for highly skilled and highly verbal jobs. This preference for SGDs over mildly dysarthric voice was also found for jobs entailing computer-mediated-communication, particularly skillful jobs. Show more

Keywords: Augmentative and alternative communication, disability, discrimination, computer synthesized speech, assistive technology, stigma

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172489

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 199-211, 2017

Authors: Stanek, Justin M. | Dodd, Daniel J. | Kelly, Adam R. | Wolfe, Alex M. | Swenson, Ryan A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Firefighting is a dangerous occupation that requires adequate functional movement patterns to help reduce injury risk. Structured programs for improving movement quality have not been studied in firefighters. OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of an 8-week individualized corrective exercise training program on Functional Movement Screen (FMS) scores in active duty firefighters. METHODS: Fifty-six male firefighters volunteered to participate in the study. All subjects completed baseline FMS testing and scores were entered into the FMS Pro360 system, subscription-based software which generates an individualized corrective exercise workout based on each independent test score. Two, 4-week corrective …exercise programs were generated for each participant based on baseline testing. Following the 8-weeks, participants completed follow-up FMS testing. RESULTS: A significant increase in total FMS score (pre = 12.09±2.75, post = 13.66±2.28) was found after the program. A significant increase in stability (pre = 4.13±1.21, post = 4.55±0.83) and advanced movements (pre = 4.45±1.28, post = 5.36±1.29) were also found, however, no difference was observed in mobility tests (3.52±1.09, post = 3.75±0.90). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest an 8-week individualized corrective exercise program was effective at improving scores on the FMS. Providing corrective exercise programs specific to improving levels of dysfunction or maintaining/enhancing function, may increase firefighter preparedness and attempt to minimize injury risk. Show more

Keywords: Assessment, corrective, dysfunctional, exercise, training

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172493

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 213-220, 2017

Authors: Nair, Akshay Gopinathan | Jain, Pooja | Agarwal, Aniruddha | Jain, Vandana

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Ophthalmology is a rapidly evolving branch of medicine and advancing technology has raised the bar of patient expectations and outcomes. However, studies that assess physician stress and satisfaction especially in developing countries are limited in literature. OBJECTIVE: This index study aims at looking at the levels of job satisfaction, burnout and perception of gender disparity among ophthalmologists in India. METHODS: An Internet-based survey was sent out to ophthalmologists. 297 respondents replied with responses, which were anonymized and analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 297 respondents, 101 were female and 196 were male ophthalmologists. The …mean duration of practice of the respondents was 14.66 years. 54.21% (161/297) responded affirmatively when asked if they were satisfied with their careers. 19% (56/297) were not satisfied. 26.94% (80/297) replied that although they were satisfied, they wished they had more time for family. A quarter (25.2%; 63 out of 250) of the respondents felt burnt-out at that stage of their careers. 68.35% (203/297) of the respondents felt that being a woman ophthalmologist in India was more challenging than being a male ophthalmologist. This perception was significantly more amongst women respondents (p  < 0.0002). Greater family responsibility, long working hours, and having to work harder were the challenges faced by female ophthalmologists. There was a significant difference in perception between male and female ophthalmologists regarding the presence of disparity in earnings given equal qualifications and experience with more women responding in the affirmative. CONCLUSIONS : Indian ophthalmologists have personally and professionally satisfying careers with low rates of burnout. While good family support and an understanding partner help ophthalmologists achieve good work-life balance, women ophthalmologists perceive a gender-based disparity when it comes to proving their worth and getting suitably remunerated. Show more

Keywords: Ophthalmology, women in medicine, physician burnout, gender disparity, job satisfaction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172488

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 221-228, 2017

Authors: Engelen, Lina | Chau, Josephine | Bohn-Goldbaum, Erika | Young, Sarah | Hespe, Dominique | Bauman, Adrian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Active Design is a relatively new concept and evaluation on its effects on healthy behaviour is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To investigate Active Design influence on workplace physical activity, sedentary behaviour, musculoskeletal complaints, and perceptions of the workplace and productivity. METHODS: Participants (n  = 118 adults) moving from 14 workplaces into a new building completed an online questionnaire pre- and post-move. The questions related to health behaviours (physical activity, sitting time and sleep); musculoskeletal issues; perceptions of the office environment; productivity; and engagement. RESULTS: After the move, 68% of participants were located in an open …plan building (21% before the move). In the new workplace participants tended to sit less during their work time (72% – 66%; p  < 0.05) and stand more (15% – 19%; p  < 0.05) while walking remained unchanged. Participants reported less lower-back pain. The new work environment was perceived as more motivating and providing better light, air quality and temperature, but less storage space. Participants reported looking forward to going to work more than before. No difference was reported in productivity related measures. CONCLUSIONS: Moving to a new Active Design building can have some physical health-promoting effects on occupants. Satisfaction with environmental characteristics tended to improve in the new building though perceptions of productivity measures were variable. Show more

Keywords: Workplace health, survey, indoor environment, sedentary behaviour

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172483

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 229-237, 2017

Authors: Milligan, Gemma S. | House, James R. | Tipton, Michael J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: To establish a Physical Employment Standard for tasks with high physical demands, it is important to determine the physiological requirements. One such task for the UK Coastguard is mud rescue. OBJECTIVE: To quantify the physiological demand of pulling a rescue sled across estuary mud, and determine whether rescuer experience has an impact on the physiological demand of this task. METHODS: Forty participants walked 150 m in 3 minutes across estuary mud. Following 3 minute rest, they walked 150 m pulling a rescue sled (61 kg) in pairs (based on experience). RESULTS: Experienced rescuers had a …total oxygen consumption approximately 24% lower than those inexperienced in the task. Relative oxygen consumption (V ̇ O2 ) was significantly (p  < 0.05) greater in the non-experienced (mean [SD]; 42.90 [6.55] mL.kg–1 .min–1 ) compared to the experienced group (32.85 [5.79] mL.kg–1 .min–1 ) when controlled for pace. Required V ̇ O2 for various speeds were predicted based on non-experienced participants and assessed for agreement. LoA (95%) mean±difference was 0.0003 ± 3.48 mL.kg–1 .min–1 , with a CV of 2.30%. CONCLUSIONS: For tasks that require a high relative V ̇ O2 , such as mud rescue, the minimum level of fitness at entry should be based upon the metabolic demands measured on those who are inexperienced. Show more

Keywords: Physical employment standards, occupational tasks, physiological demands of rescue

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172487

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 239-245, 2017

Authors: Arias, Oscar E. | Umukoro, Peter E. | Stoffel, Sonja D. | Hopcia, Karen | Sorensen, Glorian | Dennerlein, Jack T.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Trunk flexion and occupational physical activity are parameters that have been used to assess and characterize jobs with high physical demands. OBJECTIVE: Characterize the physical load of trunk flexion and physical activity of patient care unit (PCU) workers during a single work shift. METHODS: Participants wore an accelerometer to measure physical activity and an inclinometer to assess trunk flexion during a single work shift, which was compared using correlation and linear regression analyses. RESULTS: Participants spent 74% of their work time upright between – 10° to 20° and 19% of their time …flexed between 20° to 45°. On average workers spent 3% and 5% of their time, in the extreme postures of less than – 10° and greater than 45°, respectively. Participants spent 99% of their shift below moderate and vigorous activity. The largest correlation found was between the number of forward trunk flexions to 20° degrees per shift and minutes in lifestyle activity (r  = 0.6, p  < 0.001). No correlations between minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity and trunk flexion were observed. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that the physical demands of patient care unit workers as measured through trunk flexion are associated with lifestyle and light levels of physical activity. Show more

Keywords: Posture, workload, ergonomics, and bending

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172481

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 247-255, 2017

Authors: Omić, S. | Brkić, V.K. Spasojevic | Golubović, T.A. | Brkić, A.D. | Klarin, M.M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There are recent studies using new industrial workers’ anthropometric data in different countries, but for Serbia such data are not available. OBJECTIVE: This study is the first anthropometric study of Serbian metal industry workers in the country, whose labor force is increasingly employed both on local and international markets. The metal industry is one of Serbia’s most important economic sectors. METHODS: To this end, we collected the basic static anthropometric dimensions of 122 industrial workers and used principal components analysis (PCA) to obtain multivariate anthropometric models. To confirm the results, the dimensions of an …additional 50 workers were collected. The PCA methodology was also compared with the percentile method. RESULTS: Comparing both data samples, we found that 96% of the participants are within the tolerance ellipsoid. According to this study, multivariate modeling covers a larger extent of the intended population proportion compared to percentiles. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this research are useful for the designers of metal industry workstations. This information can be used in dimensioning the workplace, thus increasing job satisfaction, reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities, and consequently increasing productivity and safety. Show more

Keywords: Anthropometric measurements, principal components analysis, percentiles

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172482

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 257-265, 2017

Authors: Khandan, M. | Koohpaei, A.R. | Nili, M. | Farjami, Y.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In order to evaluate occupational disorders and ergonomic problems in a workplace, Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) problem solving methods such as Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) can be utilized. OBJECTIVE: In this paper, Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) risk factors were evaluated in a manufacturing company in Iran by a method called Assessment of Repetitive Tasks (ART) of the upper limbs integrated with Fuzzy TOPSIS in order to prioritize the corrective actions. METHODS : This study was done with a descriptive-analytical approach. The company under study had 240 employees …who were working in seven different shops. Out of all tasks, 13 tasks were included in the study. Required information was gathered by a demographic questionnaire and ART method. Also, Fuzzy TOPSIS was utilized for the prioritization of the company shops based on the ergonomic control needs. RESULTS : Data analysis from ART indicated that 74.6% of the reviewed tasks were high risk. Based on the F- TOPSIS-ART results, Production shop prioritized as the highest need for MSD control. CONCLUSIONS: Because there is time and financial resources limit in ergonomic control activities, a fuzzy prioritization approach such as Fuzzy TOPSIS ART can be used to take advantage of the available resources and control risks to as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP) level. Show more

Keywords: MCDM, decision-making, posture, occupational ergonomics, TOPSIS

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172491

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 267-276, 2017

Authors: Kocur, Piotr | Pospieszna, Barbara | Choszczewski, Daniel | Michalowski, Lukasz | Wiernicka, Marzena | Lewandowski, Jacek

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Regular Nordic Walking training could improve fitness and reduce tenderness in selected muscle groups in office workers. OBJECTIVE: An assessment of the effects of a 12-week Nordic Walking training program on the perceived pain threshold (PPT) and the flexibility of selected upper-body muscle groups in postmenopausal female office workers. METHODS: 39 office workers were selected at random for the treatment group (NWg, n  = 20) and the control group (Cg, n  = 19). The persons from the NW group completed a 12-week Nordic Walking training program (3 times a week/1 hour). PPTs measurements in selected muscles …and functional tests evaluating upper-body flexibility (Back Scratch – BS) were carried out twice in every participant of the study: before and after the training program. RESULTS: A significant increase in PPT (kg/cm2 ) was observed in the following muscles in the NW group only: upper trapezius (from 1,32 kg/cm2 to 1,99 kg/cm2 ), mid trapezius (from 2,92 kg/cm2 to 3,30 kg/cm2 ), latissimus dorsi (from 1,66 kg/cm2 to 2,21 kg/cm2 ) and infraspinatus (from 1,63 kg/cm2 to 2,93 kg/cm2 ). Moreover, a significant improvement in the BS test was noted in the NW group compared with the control group (from –1,16±5,7 cm to 2,18±5,1 cm in the NW group vs from –2,52±6,1 to –2,92±6,2 in the control group). CONCLUSIONS: A 12-week Nordic Walking training routine improves shoulder mobility and reduces tenderness in the following muscles: trapezius pars descendens and middle trapezius, infraspinatus and latissimus dorsi, in female office workers. Show more

Keywords: Perceived pain threshold, physiotherapy, aerobic training

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172497

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 277-283, 2017

Authors: Khalaf, Tamer Mohamed | Ramadan, Mohamed Zaki | Al-Ashaikh, Riyad A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Many research studies require recruiting heat-acclimatized workers to participate in heat-stress experiments and application fields. A reliable heat acclimatization program for workers in countries with hot environments has not been reported yet. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to estimate the effects of heat stress and the amount of acclimatization required in hot-climate countries. METHODS: Eighteen male workers from an industrial population participated in this experiment. Nine days of exposure to a hot environment (wet-bulb globe temperature, 30°C) was the independent variable. The participants’ cardiac costs and increment aural-canal temperatures were the dependent …variables. RESULTS: The study results revealed that 5 days of exposure to heat sessions were sufficient to heat acclimatize the workers based on their physiological responses (i.e., heart rate and aural-canal temperature). CONCLUSIONS: According to the available literature, workers in hot climate countries, similar to the study cohort, can heat acclimatize faster than those in other Western countries. Show more

Keywords: Heat stress, heat strain, hot climate, thermal environments, cardiac cost, wet-bulb globe temperature

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162485

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 285-289, 2017

Authors: Vikne, Harald | Jebens, Einar | Elka, Shahrooz | Knardahl, Stein | Veiersted, Kaj Bo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND : Rope access technique is an alternative method for gaining access to challenging work locations. There is limited knowledge about possible adverse effects of this technique on the workers’ health. OBJECTIVE: To compare the frequency of bodily regions with pain in rope access technicians with craft workers and the working population in general. METHODS: The one-month prevalence of pain in the head, neck, distal upper extremities, lower back and lower extremities was recorded in rope access technicians (n  = 95), “craft workers” (n  = 289) and “all occupations” (n  = 1563). RESULTS: An increased prevalence of …pain in the neck, distal upper extremities and lower extremities was found for the rope access technicians compared with all occupations (p -values <0.01). Compared with the craft workers, relatively more rope access technicians reported pain in the lower extremity region (p  <0.01) while the groups were similar for the other body regions. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of pain in the lower extremities was higher in rope access technicians compared with craft workers, while no differences were found for other body regions. The increased prevalence of pain in the neck and distal upper extremities in the technicians compared with all occupations may therefore be related to the work tasks and not the access technique. Show more

Keywords: Rope access technique, harness rig, health complaints, musculoskeletal pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172490

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 291-300, 2017

Authors: Bulduk, Sıdıka | Bulduk, Emre Özgür | Güler, Alpaslan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) cause pain and economic loss. Risk of WMSDs is affected by job satisfaction as a psychosocial factor. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate job satisfaction among aircraft baggage handlers and their exposure to work-related musculoskeletal disorder risk factors. METHODS: Two data collection tools addressing risk levels (Quick Exposure Check) and psychosocial factors (Job Satisfaction Survey) were answered by 399 male baggage handlers employed in Esenboga International Airport in Ankara, Turkey. RESULTS: Risk exposure scores for WMSDs among baggage handlers were 27±3.4 (high) for the back …(static), 42±7.2 (very high) for the back (moving), 42±6.1 (very high) for the shoulder/arm, 44±1.9 (very high) for the wrist/hand, and 13±5.1(high) for the neck. The average job satisfaction levels of the majority was either low (4.2250±1.10184) or moderate (3.1019±0.93352). In addition, low and moderate job satisfaction was significantly associated with higher WMSD risk levels among baggage handlers. CONCLUSIONS: Increased WMSD risk levels among baggage handlers are associated with low and moderate job satisfaction, suggesting that it is mandatory to perform intervention methods in this occupation. Show more

Keywords: Baggage handlers, musculoskeletal disorders, job satisfaction, quick exposure check

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172494

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 301-308, 2017

Authors: Schmidt, Lisa | Sjöström, John | Antonsson, Ann-Beth

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Swedish employers are required to use external resources such as Occupational Health Services (OHS providers) if their own knowledge of occupational health and safety is insufficient. Some large employers have their own in-house OHS units but it is more common to engage the services of an external provider. However, no studies have been carried out from a critical perspective regarding how ownership of the OHS provider is related to a successful collaboration with client companies. OBJECTIVES: This study explores the extent to which the six key factors for a successful collaboration are related to ownership and …seeks to identify the challenges that the different models of ownership pose. METHODS: Interviews with 15 client companies and their OHS providers were conducted in order to identify key factors in achieving a successful collaboration with an OHS provider. This study utilizes existing data to identify challenges related to ownership. RESULTS: Two key factors were identified with challenges related to ownership of the OHS provider: The importance of having a long-term perspective when building a relationship; and ensuring that collaboration extends beyond the client’s HR Department to the various organisational levels of the company. CONCLUSIONS : Whatever form the ownership of an OHS provider may take, each comes with its own specific set of challenges that must be managed in order to achieve a successful collaboration with the client company. Show more

Keywords: Ownership, occupational health services, occupational health and safety management, work environment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172498

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 309-318, 2017

Authors: Lu, Wenliang | Zhou, Ping | Zheng, Songbai | Xue, Di

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although many studies have discussed burnout in clinical physicians, the evidence literature about physical rehabilitation professionals is still limited in China. OBJECTIVE: To understand the current status of rehabilitation services and burnout of rehabilitation professionals in Shanghai. METHOD: Twenty-four hospitals located in three districts of Shanghai were selected for this study. The questionnaire surveys of 24 hospitals and their 221 rehabilitation professionals and 235 other medical professionals were conducted. RESULTS: The percentages of the hospitals that had rehabilitation departments in three districts of Shanghai ranged from 25.0% to 88.9%, suggesting a great …variation in distribution of rehabilitation resources. Only one tertiary general hospital had 12 beds for inpatient rehabilitation. The surveyed rehabilitation professionals who had graduate or undergraduate education accounted for 64.90% as a whole, but 49.32% in community health centers, 66.67% in secondary general hospitals, and 77.78% in tertiary general hospitals. The average scores for emotional exhaustion, cynicism and low professional efficacy were 11.66, 7.48, and 10.36 respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals that the resources in the field of rehabilitation in Shanghai need to be enhanced to meet its future demands. It is also recommended that the managers in secondary general hospitals and the local government pay more attention to the rehabilitation professionals in the secondary general hospitals because they are reporting higher emotional exhaustion. Finally, the value of rehabilitation services to help persons with disabilities need to be better conveyed to all interested parties. Show more

Keywords: Resources, provision, hospital

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172496

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 319-325, 2017

Authors: Gorenak, Mitja | Gorenak, Irena

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Traveling is becoming more and more accessible, thus more people can come into contact with certain diseases while traveling. Various diseases are on the rise, especially because more people than ever before are traveling. Special groups of people who are traveling more than the average person are tour guides and tour managers, which increases their exposure to these diseases. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this article is to see how much tour guides and tour managers know about health-related diseases that they may encounter when they are working. METHODS: A link to an online questionnaire …was sent by e-mail to 500 randomly selected tour guides and tour managers; we have collected 120 valid responses, which represent 24.00% of the selected sample of Slovenian tour guides and tour managers. RESULTS: We have found that tour guides and tour managers are acquainted with exposure to certain travelers’ diseases, and but know relatively little about the symptoms. However, we have also found that tour guides and tour managers do know what the proper preventive measures for these diseases are in the majority of cases. CONCLUSIONS: The current state of knowledge in this area is still alarming, and tour guides and tour managers need to get educated or educate themselves mostly about the symptoms and also about preventive measures. Here we also see the possibility for travel agencies or professional associations to participate and help raise the awareness of risks posed by certain common travelers’ diseases. Show more

Keywords: Preventive health care, travelers’ diseases, tour guides, tour managers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-162484

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 327-336, 2017

Authors: Labbafinejad, Yasser | Danesh, Hossein | Imanizade, Zahra

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are defined as the disabling or painful injury to the muscles, nerves or tendons that are caused by work or aggravated by it. Some studies confirm the association between working in packaging units in various industries and the pain in the upper limb, but also there are controversies about the possible risk factors among different working populations. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to define the potential ergonomic risk factors for musculoskeletal pain in the upper limb. METHODS: The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used for assessment of the musculoskeletal pain. Some other …questions about the possible risk factors were included in the questionnaire. In order to assess posture, rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) test was performed by trained ergonomists. RESULTS: The findings of the study reveals that shoulder pain is associated with work history (P -value = 0.01), smoking (P -value = 0.02), the level of education (P -value = 0.04) and age more than 40 years old (P -value = 0.01). Wrist pain was associated with shiftwork (P -value = 0.04) and especially fixed shiftwork (P -value = 0.04) and also age more than 40(P -value = 0.03) and missed days from work with a cut point of 7 days (P -value = 0.03). After regression, only the work history (OR = 14.4 for 10 to 20 years and OR = 32.2 for more than 20 years) and shiftwork (OR = 2.35) remained statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, RULA was not associated with symptoms in the upper limb in non-heavy working industries so we do not recommend it for screening purposes. The use of decades of working history and shiftwork can be considered for this purpose in the shoulder and wrist pain respectively. Show more

Keywords: RULA, musculoskeletal symptoms, posture, shiftwork, work history

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172495

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 337-344, 2017

Authors: Ohl, Alisha | Grice Sheff, Mira | Small, Sarah | Nguyen, Jamie | Paskor, Kelly | Zanjirian, Aliza

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the United States, adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience high rates of unemployment and underemployment in relation to adults with other disabilities and the general population. Yet there is little research examining their employment experiences and the predictors of employment status. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the employment characteristics and histories of both employed and unemployed adults with ASD, and the factors that contributed to their employment status. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used an online survey and the Short Effort Reward Imbalance (ERI) Scale to gather data. Multivariate …logistic regression analyses were used to examine predictors of employment status and self-reported health. RESULTS: Of the 254 adults with ASD who participated in this study, 61.42% were employed and 38.58% were unemployed. Over half of the participants reported job imbalance on the Short ERI Scale and the vast majority did not receive any job assistance. Participants who disclosed their ASD diagnosis to their employer were more than three times as likely to be employed than those who did not disclose. Education level was also a significant predictor of employment status. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests disability disclosure and education level are factors that contribute to employment status. Show more

Keywords: Competitive employment, disability disclosure, organizations, Asperger’s disorder

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172492

Citation: Work, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 345-355, 2017