Work - Volume 57, issue 4

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172592

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 451-452, 2017

Authors: Miller, Linda | Liu, Lili

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172604

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 453-454, 2017

Authors: Ripat, Jacquie D. | Woodgate, Roberta L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Young adults with disabilities often use assistive technology (AT) to address personal needs, engage in communities and pursue educational and vocational goals. Little is known about their personal experiences and challenges of accessing and using AT for productivity-related activities. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to learn from young adults about their experiences and use of AT in supporting their productivity. METHODS: Using a qualitative approach, 20 young adult AT users engaged in semi-structured interviews and a photovoice process. Data were analysed inductively. RESULTS: Three primary themes were identified: I Have to Figure it out …Myself, With the Right AT, and Relational Aspects of AT Use. Although participants were experienced AT users, they were often left alone to figure out their emerging needs. They relied on AT to participate in productivity pursuits however stigma around AT use in unsupportive work environments were new concerns. CONCLUSIONS: Young adults with disabilities draw on their experiences of AT use but may need to develop advocacy skills to ensure their needs are met in productivity-related environments. Employers and supervisors should recognize AT as essential to young adult’s engagement with productivity-related activities and have an important role in developing inclusive work environments. Show more

Keywords: Qualitative, emerging adult, participation, technology, disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172580

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 455-468, 2017

Authors: Ritchie, Catherine L.W. | Miller, Linda L. | Antle, David M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Telehealth approaches to delivering ergonomics assessment hold great potential to improve service delivery in rural and remote settings. This case study describes a telehealth-based ergonomics service delivery process, and compares in-person and telehealth-based ergonomics approaches at an Alberta-based non-profit advocacy group. This project demonstrates that telehealth approaches to ergonomics do not lead to significantly different scoring outcomes for assessment of ergonomics issues, when compared to in-person assessments. This project also outlines the importance of live real-time video conferencing to improving communication, attaining key assessment information, and demonstrating ergonomic adjustments. However, some key considerations of bandwidth and hardware capabilities need to …be taken into account. Key communication strategies are outlined to improve rapport, maintain employee confidentiality, and reduce client anxiety around telehealth ergonomics assessments. This project provides further support for telehealth approaches to office ergonomics, and outlines some key implementation strategies and barriers that should be considered. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, telehealth, rural and remote, workplace assessment, field study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172579

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 469-473, 2017

Authors: Cotton, Zoë | Russell, Trevor | Johnston, Venerina | Legge, Jennifer

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pre-Employment Functional Assessments (PEFA) are increasingly used in an attempt to obtain objective information on a potential employee’s functional capabilities. In rural and remote communities, there is typically reduced access to qualified therapists to perform these assessments, in part attributable to the time and costs associated with travelling to training courses. One potential method of providing the relevant training to conduct PEFAs is through the use of technologies such as videoconferencing or internet-based modules. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this project is to investigate the effectiveness of training therapists and therapy students in performing JobFit System PEFAs via …technology when compared with a face-to-face control group. METHODS: Fifty-three participants, consisting of 28 professional physiotherapists and occupational therapists, and 25 final year University of Queensland (UQ) physiotherapy and occupational therapy students, underwent JobFit Systems International PEFA training via one of four intervention groups: face-to-face, realtime videoconferencing, group-based online module and individual online module. RESULTS: Of the 53 participants, 49 achieved the minimum competency level of 75% in post-training competency assessments. No significant difference was found in training levels between intervention groups. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that technology, such as real-time videoconference and online learning modules, can be used to train both therapists and students in how to perform JobFit System PEFAs. Show more

Keywords: Training, occupational therapy, physiotherapy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172578

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 475-482, 2017

Authors: Turner, Niall | Nesbitt, Tara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Census data plays an important role in informing a Government’s policies and priorities. In the Republic of Ireland census data from 1986 onwards is available online. For this article variables pertaining to work, specifically the non-labour force variable, were analysed. While we found a linear decline from 47.16% in 1986 to 38.14% in 2011 this had not occurred in all categories of non-labour force work; the “unable to work due to permanent sickness or disability” group increased from 6.84% to 11.41%, a 66% rise. This occurred in spite of legislation and services being put in place to assist people with …disabilities to re-enter the workforce. US data also indicates a rise in the number of people with disabilities in the non-labour force work category. Why this is occurring is a complex question, determining if similar trends are evident within census data in other countries would assist in answering it. Show more

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172591

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 483-484, 2017

Authors: Gould, Robert | Harris, Sarah Parker | Fujiura, Glenn

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Participatory methodologies in disability and rehabilitation research are used to capture the perspectives of people with disabilities and to recognize the agency of stakeholder groups. Existing resources for conducting systematic reviews seldom provide details about how to integrate stakeholder input into the methodological process. OBJECTIVES: This article considers how knowledge translation strategies can support and advance systematic reviews that include diverse types of research. METHODS: Lessons learned from conducting a systematic review of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) employment research are explained and contextualized within research on barriers and facilitators to successful knowledge translation. …RESULTS: Steps from the research protocol are described to provide a procedural framework for integrating stakeholder feedback into the review process. Descriptive mapping, an analytical technique most commonly used in scoping reviews, was deemed necessary to provide a clearer understanding and overview of the diverse body of research evidence. CONCLUSIONS: Stakeholder feedback can address barriers to knowledge translation by engaging end-users of research products throughout the review process. Given the growing scholarly recognition of qualitative and mixed-methods techniques as suitable approaches for systematic review, there is further need for consideration on how these approaches can benefit from more participatory research processes. Show more

Keywords: Knowledge Translation, ADA, research methods, meta-synthesis, meta-ethnography

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172577

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 485-499, 2017

Authors: Hong, Quan Nha | Coutu, Marie-France | Berbiche, Djamal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Work Role Functioning Questionnaire (WRFQ) was developed to assess workers’ perceived ability to perform job demands and is used to monitor presenteeism. Still few studies on its validity can be found in the literature. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the items and factorial composition of the Canadian French version of the WRFQ (WRFQ-CF). METHODS: Two measurement approaches were used to test the WRFQ-CF: Classical Test Theory (CTT) and non-parametric Item Response Theory (IRT). RESULTS: A total of 352 completed questionnaires were analyzed. A four-factor and three-factor model models …were tested and shown respectively good fit with 14 items (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.06, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) = 0.04, Bentler Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.98) and with 17 items (RMSEA = 0.059, SRMR = 0.048, CFI = 0.98). Using IRT, 13 problematic items were identified, of which 9 were common with CTT. CONCLUSIONS: This study tested different models with fewer problematic items found in a three-factor model. Using a non-parametric IRT and CTT for item purification gave complementary results. IRT is still scarcely used and can be an interesting alternative method to enhance the quality of a measurement instrument. More studies are needed on the WRFQ-CF to refine its items and factorial composition. Show more

Keywords: Factor analysis, psychometrics, presenteeism

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172585

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 501-515, 2017

Authors: Brown, Cary A. | Schell, Jennifer | Pashniak, Lisa M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational therapists (OTs) work in all areas of health and wellbeing. The work is physically and psychologically demanding, but OTs are often not diligent about recognizing and attending to the workplace health and safety issue of fatigue in their own work settings. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this paper is to determine current issues and the evidence-base as presented in the literature so as to develop awareness and best practice interventions for fatigue reduction and management in occupational therapists’ workplace. METHODS: A comprehensive search strategy was carried out by the medical librarian on the study team …and themes were extracted from the relevant literature by the study team. RESULTS: The literature revealed little research directly addressing occupational therapy workplace fatigue and we expanded our review of the evidence-base across all healthcare workers to identify publications of particular relevance to occupational therapists. CONCLUSION: This background paper is an important first step to raising awareness among OTs, guide key stakeholders regarding contributing factors to, and consequences of, OTs’ workplace fatigue, and set research direction. Knowing which factors influencing workplace fatigue are shared across healthcare professionals and which are unique to OTs can also help organizations develop more tailored workplace fatigue risk reduction programs. This review concludes with a list of existing guidelines and tools for developing workplace fatigue risk assessment and management programs relevant to occupational therapists. Show more

Keywords: Work-related injury, burnout, psychological health, occupation, healthcare professional

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172576

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 517-527, 2017

Authors: Dianat, Iman | Asadollahi, Soudabeh | Nedaei, Moein

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The traditional design of fabric cutting scissors frequently causes excessive ulnar deviation of the wrist which, together with repetitive and long-term use of the tool, may contribute to the development of musculoskeletal problems, particularly in the upper extremities. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare a new bent-handle fabric scissors with a traditional one. METHODS: The study investigated the effects of a new bent-handle fabric scissors on several hand performance capabilities (hand dexterity, pinch grip strength, wrist postures and hand/finger discomfort) and tool’s usability (using System Usability Scale – SUS) and compared it …against the effects of traditional design. RESULTS: The results indicated that the bent-handle fabric scissors was superior to the traditional design as it resulted in more neutral wrist deviation, higher usability scores and less hand/finger discomfort ratings. No significant difference was found between the two designs with regard to the hand dexterity and strength exertions. CONCLUSIONS: The findings provide evidence that the ergonomic principle of “bending the tool, not the wrist” can perhaps be employed advantageously for the design of fabric cutting scissors to reduce wrist deviations and discomfort and to improve the tool’s usability. Show more

Keywords: Hand tools, tool handle, bent handle, fabric cutting scissors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172583

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 529-534, 2017

Authors: Pihl, Patricia | Albertsen, Karen | Hogh, Annie | Andersen, Lars Peter Sønderbo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workplace bullying is a serious stressor with devastating short- and long-term consequences. The concept of organizational social capital may provide insights into the interactional and communicative dynamics of the bullying process and opportunities for prevention. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the association between organizational social capital and being a target or observer of workplace bullying. METHODS: Based on self-reported cross-sectional data from a large representative sample of the Danish working population (n  = 10.037), logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore at the individual level the associations between vertical and horizontal organizational social capital with …being a target or observer of workplace bullying. RESULTS: In the fully adjusted models, low organizational social capital (vertical and horizontal) was associated with significantly increased odds ratios of both self-labelled (vertical: OR = 3.25; CI = 2.34–4.51; horizontal: OR = 3.17; CI = 2.41–4.18) and observed workplace bullying (vertical: OR = 2.09; CI = 1.70–2.56; horizontal: OR = 1.60; CI = 1.35–1.89), when compared with high organizational social capital. CONCLUSIONS: This study supports that characteristics of the psychosocial work environment are of importance in the development of workplace bullying, and provides focus on the importance of self-reported organizational social capital. Show more

Keywords: Work environment, observers of bullying, targets of bullying, organizational social capital, Danish WorkEnvironment Cohort Study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172589

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 535-545, 2017

Authors: Samaei, S.E. | Tirgar, A. | Khanjani, N. | Mostafaee, M. | Bagheri Hosseinabadi, M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational disorders in many countries and have an increasing trend. OBJECTIVE: The present study was conducted in order to determine the prevalence rate of MSDs in different body regions and the effect of personal factors on the prevalence rate of MSDs among rubber industry workers. METHODS: This analytical and cross-sectional study was performed on 206 workers of an Iranian rubber factory in 2014. The samples were randomly selected. Data were gathered by means of personal information form, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and the Rapid Entire Body …Assessment (REBA). The results were analyzed using SPSS16; by descriptive and analytical statistics. RESULTS: The mean age and work history of subjects were 34.54±6.36 and 12.34±6.28 years, respectively. The highest prevalence rate of MSDs in the last twelve-months was related to the lower back region with a prevalence rate of 62.1%. Based on logistic regression, a significant correlation was found between MSDs and the final REBA score so that for a one-unit increase in score, the risk or complaint of neck and low back pain increased by 48.5% and 37.1%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Many rubber factory workers experience MSDs especially in the lower back region as a consequence of occupational risk factors. Therefore, detecting the occupational risk factors, work position standards and following ergonomic interventions are highly recommended. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, working posture, Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA).

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172586

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 547-553, 2017

Authors: Gorucu, Serap | Murphy, Dennis | Kassab, Cathy

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: All Terrain Vehicles on public roadways become major risk factors for the motorists. OBJECTIVE: To compare characteristics of crashes and injury severity related to single vehicle (SV) and multi-vehicle (MV) All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) roadway crashes in Pennsylvania, USA. METHODS: Data on ATV crashes occurring on public roads during the years 2010–2013 was obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and analyzed. RESULTS: Almost two-thirds of the incidents were single-vehicle incidents. Single-ATV incidents have a greater risk for incapacitating injury to drivers than do multi-vehicle ATV incidents. Other factors that increase risk for …incapacitating injury in SV crashes include being male, being a driver, alcohol/drug involvement, hitting a fixed object, and the incidents in non-daylight hours. For MV ATV incidents, head on and rear-end crashes and drivers who had alcohol/drug involvement were the two major incapacitating injury risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: This study has enabled us to better understand roadway ATV incidents, characteristics of SV and MV ATV crashes, and the incapacitating injury risks in both SV and MV crash incidents. Our study suggests that road safety and public health programs should focus on the users’ knowledge on laws regarding ATV usage on public roadways. Show more

Keywords: Injury, roadway crashes, risk factors, traffic safety, accident analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172584

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 555-562, 2017

Authors: Rodrigues, Mirela Sant’Ana | Leite, Raquel Descie Veraldi | Lelis, Cheila Maira | Chaves, Thaís Cristina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Some studies have suggested a causal relationship between computer work and the development of musculoskeletal disorders. However, studies considering the use of specific tools to assess workplace ergonomics and psychosocial factors in computer office workers with and without reported musculoskeletal pain are scarce. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the ergonomic, physical, and psychosocial factors in computer office workers with and without reported musculoskeletal pain (MSP). METHODS: Thirty-five computer office workers (aged 18–55 years) participated in the study. The following evaluations were completed: Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Rapid Office Strain Assessment …(ROSA), and Maastricht Upper Extremity Questionnaire revised Brazilian Portuguese version (MUEQ-Br revised). Student t -tests were used to make comparisons between groups. RESULTS: The computer office workers were divided into two groups: workers with reported MSP (WMSP, n  = 17) and workers without positive report (WOMSP, n  = 18). Those in the WMSP group showed significantly greater mean values in the total ROSA score (WMSP: 6.71 [CI95% :6.20–7.21] and WOMSP: 5.88 [CI95% :5.37–6.39], p  = 0.01). The WMSP group also showed higher scores in the chair section of the ROSA, workstation of MUEQ-Br revised, and in the upper limb RULA score. The chair height and armrest sections from ROSA showed the higher mean values in workers WMSP compared to workers WOMSP. A positive moderate correlation was observed between ROSA and RULA total scores (R = 0.63, p  < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated that computer office workers who reported MSP had worse ergonomics indexes for chair workstation and worse physical risk related to upper limb (RULA upper limb section) than workers without pain. However, there were no observed differences in workers with and without MSP regarding work-related psychosocial factors. The results suggest that inadequate workstation conditions, specifically the chair height, arm and back rest, are linked to improper upper limb postures and that these factors are contributing to MSP in computer office workers. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, checklist, questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172582

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 563-572, 2017

Authors: Pejčić, Nataša | Petrović, Vanja | Marković, Dejan | Miličić, Biljana | Dimitrijević, Ivana Ilić | Perunović, Neda | Čakić, Saša

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dentists have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal (MS) pain, which is the most common symptom associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). To overcome this problem, identification of the risk factors and preventive measures for MS pain are of paramount importance to dentists in order to improve their quality of life and work. OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to recognize the risk factors for MS pain and their impact on dental work, as well as to identify preventive measures of MS pain among dentists. METHODS: Self-reporting questionnaire consisting of 78 questions was exclusively developed …for the study and sent to 500 working active dentists in Serbia. RESULTS: Response rate was 71.2% (356 dentists). The prevalence of MS pain was 82.6% among dentists. The main risk factors for MS pain were advanced age, female dentists, presence of chronic diseases, long working hours, and high frequency of treated patients. The most effective preventive measures in preventing MS pain were massage treatments and physical activities. Followed by use of ergonomically designed equipment, correct and dynamic working positions, and an adequate workflow organization. CONCLUSION: The risk factors for MS pain and their impact on dental work should widely be disseminated among dentists. Importantly, proper implementation in everyday life of adequate preventive measures is essential for preventing MS pain and development of WMSDs. Show more

Keywords: Risk factors, preventive measures, musculoskeletal disorders, dental work, working performance, working postures

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172588

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 573-593, 2017

Authors: Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed | Olaoye, Olumide Ayoola

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Stroke has been identified as a global cause of neurological disability with a resultant burden shared not only by the survivor but also by society. The resumption of an individual’s role as a worker after having a stroke, is an important rehabilitation goal. South-West Nigeria has experienced a high incidence and prevalence of stroke, leaving a quarter of survivors with severe disabilities and difficulties in community integration after rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: The study was aimed at exploring and describing the experiences of rehabilitated stroke survivors and perceptions of stakeholders about stroke survivors returning to work in South-West Nigeria. …METHODS: A qualitative research design was used to explore these experiences and perceptions from 19 participants, comprising nine stroke survivors, two key informants, who were rehabilitation specialists, and eight caregivers of the respective stroke survivors. The researcher made use of focus groups with the caregivers and semi-structured interviews with the stroke survivors and rehabilitation specialists. The data from the study were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Three themes emerged: Themes one and two described the barriers experienced by the stroke survivors on returning to work. Theme three described the factors that facilitated the resumption of the worker role. CONCLUSIONS: The study findings clearly depicted the many barriers experienced by stroke survivors and how these negatively impact their worker roles. Limited facilitatory factors exist to assist stroke survivors in regard to adapting to their worker roles. Promoting participation of stroke survivors in work emanating from government policies was deemed to be a necessary recommendation for the study. These policies were seen to be achievable if rehabilitation resources were improved. Show more

Keywords: Occupation, occupational therapy, vocational rehabilitation, qualitative research, worker role

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172590

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 595-609, 2017

Authors: Lin, Jhih-Tsong | Chen, Yan-Cheng | Wu, Shih-Chieh | Hwang, Sheue-Ling

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In an advanced nuclear power plant (NPP), the operators are responsible for monitoring a massive number of alarm parameters. OBJECTIVE: To assist the operators, a monitoring-aid system (MAS), that applies four quality control chart methods, was proposed and evaluated. METHODS: Two types of MAS, namely, text and graph marks, were proposed and compared with the original display. To validate the proposed MAS, 17 professional engineers and operators were invited to join an experiment. Two different system states, normal and abnormal, were simulated. The operators were asked to manipulate the system, monitor the critical parameters, search …for operational procedures, and deal with other secondary tasks. The primary and secondary task performance and heart rate were measured. After each task was conducted, three subjective rating questionnaires, namely, mental workload, situation awareness, and preference ratings, were implemented for the proposed MAS and the original system. RESULTS: With the assistance of the MAS, the alarm detection rate, secondary task performance, and subjective mental workload demonstrate significant improvements. The proposed MAS helps the operators monitor critical parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, the MAS should be considered for implementation with the control panel to increase the safety of NPPs. Furthermore, the MAS could reduce the mental workload might decrease the health hazard of the operators. Show more

Keywords: Mental workload, situation awareness, control panel interface, quality control charts

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172587

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 611-625, 2017

Authors: Truszczyńska-Baszak, Aleksandra | Drzał-Grabiec, Justyna | From, Dagmara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to determine the parameters of the postural changes between two sitting positions: sitting on a saddle chair compared to sitting on an office chair. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine the impact of an adjustable saddle chair compared to an adjustable office chair with a backrest on sitting posture. METHODS: The study involved 60 healthy subjects, mean age 24.7±2.3 years. The study used a MORA 4G system, operating on the basis of spatial photogrammetry. RESULTS: It was found that there were statistically significant differences …regarding the depth of thoracic kyphosis and the angle of the trunk forward inclination. These values were lower when measured on a saddle chair, and the inclination of the upper thoracic section and the lumbar lordosis depth were significantly higher when sitting on a saddle chair. CONCLUSIONS: Sitting on the saddle chair caused the positive effect of an increase of lumbar lordosis. A significant increase in the protraction in the cervical spine was observed, which would be considered to be a negative effect. Show more

Keywords: Physiotherapy, prophylactic, posture, ergonomics, sitting position

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172570

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 627-633, 2017