Work - Volume 64, issue 2

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192981

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 175-176, 2019

Authors: Kara, Feyza Meryem | Gürbüz, Bülent | Öncü, Erman

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Previous studies have found physical activity to be associated with decreased organizational cynicism and low performance OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine work engagement and leisure satisfaction in Turkish women with regard to recreational physical activity participation and marital status, and to test the relationship between age and work experience, work engagement and leisure satisfaction. METHODS: Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) and Leisure Satisfaction Scale (LSS) were administered to assess women workers’ work engagement and leisure satisfaction. The sample for this project consisted of 317 women workers living in Turkey Ankara. …RESULTS: The analysis indicated that there were statistically significant differences in all sub-dimensions of UWES and LSS between single and married participants, with single participants having higher mean scores. There were also statistically significant differences in “vigor” and “dedication” sub-dimensions of UWES, and in all sub-dimensions of LSS regarding to recreational physical activity participation. The results demonstrated that the mean scores of physically active women are higher than the non-active group. CONCLUSIONS: As a result, the data points to exercise participation as a rich source of information about work engagement and leisure satisfaction, and the positive use of leisure counseling as a work engagement. Show more

Keywords: Work life, physical activity, dedication, recreation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192979

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 177-185, 2019

Authors: Gray, Garry

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Transportation accidents are a global health concern and a leading cause of death. OBJECTIVE: A pragmatic way to decrease these accidents is to examine the routine opportunities that lead to them. Opportunities for accidents were identified by qualitatively examining the tacit knowledge possessed by truck drivers who observe unsafe driving behaviors near their trucks. METHODS: Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 158 truck drivers from 30 states in the United States (US) and three Canadian provinces. During the interviews, truck drivers made 703 observations of unsafe actions they routinely observe car drivers doing near their trucks. …The observations were coded and analyzed with the assistance of a qualitative data analysis software program. RESULTS: The findings revealed 20 unsafe driving behaviors that lead to elevated risk for car drivers. The most common unsafe action (observed by 89% of truckers) involved cars passing trucks and then cutting back into their lane too soon – the ‘front no zone’ safe space. Driving distractions comprised the second group of most commonly observed risky behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: The findings reveal that new drivers should receive truck driver awareness training as part of their licensing process and that public health campaigns be developed on the risks of driving near trucks. Show more

Keywords: Traffic safety, occupational risks, distracted driving, lone workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192985

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 187-194, 2019

Authors: Mokarami, Hamidreza | Varmazyar, Sakineh | Kazemi, Reza | Taghavi, Sayed Mohammad | Stallones, Lorann | Marioryad, Hossein | Farahmand, Faramarz

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workers engaged in dairy farming are exposed to awkward and poor postures that may result in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). OBJECTIVE: This study carried out ergonomic interventions in order to eliminate and reduce awkward postures in dairy farming. METHODS: This quasi-experimental study applied rapid entire body assessments (REBA) to evaluate the risks associated with each posture while performing the assigned tasks on a dairy farm in Iran to identify high and very high-risk tasks. A participatory ergonomics model was used that incorporated suggestions by dairy workers to design the used interventions. RESULTS: In …the first intervention, by using an automatic transmission system for pouring milk, one high and one very high-risk task— pouring milk into a bucket and pouring milk from a bucket into a tank, respectively— were eliminated. In the second intervention, two high-risk tasks— filling corn containers and pouring corn into the milling machine— were eliminated by using a material conveying vacuum pump to transfer corn from the ground to the opening of the milling machine. In the third intervention, a simple and cheap holding device for the bag was designed to reduce the posture risk score from very high to medium. The fourth intervention involved the use of a shovel with a handle appropriate to the anthropometric characteristics of the workers that reduced the posture risk from very high to medium. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that applying participatory ergonomic principles along with low cost and simple designs with high performance resulted in significant reductions in postural risks pertaining to of musculoskeletal disorders on Iran dairy farms. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal diseases, postural, risk factors, ergonomics, participatory, farmers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192986

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 195-201, 2019

Authors: Slišković, Ana | Burić, Irena | Sorić, Izabela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: One of the resources that may prevent burnout and foster the work engagement of teachers is Principal support. In this study we aimed to further explore the links between Principal support and work engagement and burnout, by testing the role of the teachers’ emotions and the educational levels of primary schools. OBJECTIVES: Testing 1) the mediating role of teachers’ emotions in explaining the relationship between perceived Principal support and work engagement and burnout, 2) differences in tested constructs, and the structural equivalence of the proposed relationship among constructs, between teachers from two educational levels of primary schools. …METHODS: The study included subsamples of 868 class teachers (lower grades) and 1057 subject teachers (upper grades) employed at 104 primary schools in Croatia. Teachers filled out self-report scales measuring burnout, work engagement, perceived Principal support and the positive and negative emotions experienced in relation to students. RESULTS: Emotions partially mediate the relationship between perceived Principal support and work engagement and burnout among teachers. Although class teachers experience higher levels of positive emotions and work engagement compared to subject teachers, the results confirmed the structural equivalence of the hypothesized model across two education levels of primary school. CONSLUSION: The Principal support predicts work engagement and burnout in teachers both directly and indirectly via emotions. Show more

Keywords: Primary school, well-being, work motivation, exhaustion, disengagement

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192987

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 203-215, 2019

Authors: Barbosa, Catarina | Azevedo, Rui | Rodrigues, Matilde A.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face greatest difficulty in managing occupational risks compared to large enterprises. Limited resources, little knowledge about risk management process and deficiencies in organizational processes are often pointed in the literature as important obstacles to occupational safety and health (OSH) performance in SMEs. However, external factors can also be of paramount importance, such as the economic crisis. Because under specific scenarios OSH conditions may deteriorate in SMEs, is important to establish effective indicators. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to identify OSH performance indicators within the context of SMEs. METHODS: To identify the …indicators, a literature review was carried out on different studies published in scientific journals in the OSH field between 2008 and October 2018 using the Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and PubMed databases. RESULTS: As a result, 14 management and organization OSH indicators applied to SMEs were identified, along with 5 at individual OSH indicators. CONCLUSION: The indicators were discussed in relation to its applicability to assess OSH performance, as well as their reliability. Future research should be done to assess the identified indicators in SMEs. Show more

Keywords: Indicators, risk level, occupational safety & health, SMEs, OSH conditions, OSH performance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192988

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 217-227, 2019

Authors: Lahey, Pamela Mary | Kirsch, Bonnie | MacDermid, Joy | Tompa, Emile | Gewurtz, Rebecca E.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Active labour market policies (ALMP) are used in advanced welfare states to support transitions to work for people who are unemployed or underemployed, including people with disabilities (PWD) in receipt of means-tested disability income support. OBJECTIVE: This study explores the nature, strength, and limitations of ALMP across advanced welfare states (ALMP) for people with disabilities (PWD) in receipt of income benefits from social assistance programs. METHODS: Following the eight steps of a scoping study, we identified 21 documents through a scan of eight databases and consultation with key informants. The majority of these documents are …scholarly publications including seven literature reviews, two program evaluations, four social policy analyses, and two longitudinal studies. RESULTS: We extracted key findings related to delivery of labour (re)entry interventions for people with disabilities. Six themes are identified that discuss these ALMP features: 1) welfare ideology and the role of citizenship; 2) conditionality of benefits; 3) work capacity and the need for an appropriate definition of disability; 4) the politics of employment outcomes for PWD; 5) the missing elements of a successful ALMP; and 6) moving beyond ALMP. The findings indicate that while various approaches are used in reintegrating PWD into mainstream employment, there are significant limitations that curtail the impact of these policies. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of welfare regime, no welfare state provides a policy mix that results in long-term employment success for PWD in receipt of means-tested income benefits. Show more

Keywords: Welfare, disability pensions, social assistance, employment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192989

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 229-247, 2019

Authors: Djebrouni, Manel | Phelan, Shanon | Aldersey, Heather | Wolbring, Gregor

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Science, technology and innovation (STI) governance concerns itself with the societal impact of STI. Occupation, whether used with the meaning of paid, unpaid work or any activity that is considered meaningful to the individual on an everyday basis, is one area of societal impact of STI. Fields such as occupational therapy, occupational science and occupational health and safety concern themselves with the relationship between occupation and the health and well-being of human beings albeit all with different foci. OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the knowledge of students from two Occupational Therapy programs on STI governance, specific STI products and …their views on the impact of STI governance and STI products on occupational therapy and its clients. METHODS: Online survey employing Yes/No’ questions with comment boxes and open-ended textbox questions. Descriptive quantitative and thematic qualitative data was generated. RESULTS: Students were unfamiliar with STI governance discourses but felt that they should be aware of them. Students stated that how one governs STI impacts occupational therapy on all levels and that the occupational therapy community has expertise that would enrich STI governance discourses around occupation. CONCLUSION: Education actions seem to be warranted on the level of students and practitioners by the occupational therapy and STI governance communities. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, governance, science, technology, innovation, human enhancement, robotics, brain machine interface, autonomous cars, students

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192990

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 249-270, 2019

Authors: Severinsen, Anette | Midtgaard, Julie | Backhausen, Mette Grønbæk | Broberg, Lotte | Hegaard, Hanne Kristine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Scandinavia, women of childbearing age represent nearly 50% of the overall workforce. Two-thirds of these women spend a considerable time on sick leave during their pregnancies. Low back pain accounts for a significant portion of all pregnancy-related sick leave. However, pregnant women’s experiences with pain-induced sick leave remains unexplored. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to investigate women’s experiences with sick leave in relation to pregnancy-induced low back pain. METHODS: An inductive, qualitative study based on semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews with 19 purposefully selected Danish women. Interviews were analysed by means of thematic content analysis. …RESULTS: The analysis revealed 4 categories: (1) Stuck in a diagnosis, (2) Inflexibility of the labour market, (3) Adapting to reduced capacity for work, and (4) Being socially excluded. The women’s experiences revolved around disruption of their physical functioning and expected capacity for work, a loss of professional identity, and a sense of inflexibility and exclusion from important relationships at work. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings illuminate the possibilities for workplace adjustments with the intention of reducing time spent on sick leave, maintaining pregnant women’s affiliation with their workplace, and a need to explore the role of healthcare professionals in addressing women’s supportive needs in relation to sick leave. Show more

Keywords: Pregnancy, women’s health, workplace policies, occupational health, work-life balance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192991

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 271-281, 2019

Authors: Silva, Bruno | Maduro, Paula | Silva, Tarcísio | Trombini-Souza, Francis

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Several professionals in hospitals can be affected by work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the body posture and self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms of employees in the healthcare and administrative section of a university hospital. METHODS: Body posture and self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms of 106 employees were quantitatively evaluated. The sample was divided into two groups: health care group (HCG) composed of 57 professionals (88% were females) with an average age of 34±7 years, mass of 66.52±14.78 kg, height of 1.62±0.07 m, and body mass index (BMI) of 25.37±4.50 kg/m2 ; and the administrative section group (ADMG) composed …of 49 professionals (57% were females) with an average age of 30±7 years, mass of 74.90±14.12 kg, height of 1.68±0.09 m, and BMI of 26.76±4.40 kg/m2 . RESULTS: The only significant difference between groups for the body posture was the greater right Q-angle in the CG (p  = 0.039). Self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms in the seven days prior to assessment were not associated with work section. CONCLUSION: The work section within the university hospital did not influence body posture or self-reporting of musculoskeletal symptoms among the healthcare and administrative staff. Show more

Keywords: Pain, osteomuscular symptoms, musculoskeletal disorders, nursing staff, hospital personnel administration

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192980

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 283-290, 2019

Authors: Slišković, Ana | Juranko, Ariana

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The dual life of seafarers and their families is recognized as a unique life which may bring various sources of stress for seafarers’ partners. OBJECTIVE: The study focuses on the explanation of the mental health of seafarers’ partners, by testing the role of different individual characteristics, and the organizational characteristics of their partners’ job. METHODS: The sample consisted of 539 women who declared themselves as seafarers’ partners (age range: 18–60 years). The on-line survey consisted of questions, relating to demographic characteristics of the participants and characteristics of their partners’ jobs, and a set of scales …measuring general mental health, relationship satisfaction, stress coping strategies, perceived social support, and resilience. RESULTS: The results showed that, after controlling for demographic characteristics, significant contributions in the explanation of the mental health of seafarers’ partners are made by the following measures: resilience, relationship satisfaction, perceived social support, and use of stress coping strategies (a lower level of dysfunctional coping strategies, and a higher level of emotion-focused strategies). In addition, a favourable ratio between working and non-working days on the part of their seafaring partners contributed to the explanation of their general mental health. CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained confirmed the role of personal resources and human-resource practices in the explanation of the mental health of seafarers’ partners. Show more

Keywords: Work contract, coping, resilience, social support

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192992

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 291-301, 2019

Authors: Santarelli, Lory | Rapisarda, Venerando | Fago, Lucrezia | Vella, Francesca | Ramaci, Tiziana | Ledda, Caterina | Bracci, Massimo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Some psychosomatic disturbances have been related to protracted video display unit (VDU) use at work, and they may be associated with job stress. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at assessing the association between psychosomatic disturbances with job-related and subjective stress in 990 VDU. METHODS: Job stress was evaluated by Karasek’s Questionnaire, psychological job demands and job decision latitude scores were calculated. Workers were assigned to four categories: high-strain job, low-strain job, active job, and passive job. Subjective perception of stress was evaluated with the Rapid Stress Assessment Scale. RESULTS: None of the psychosomatic disturbances …investigated were associated with higher psychological job demands scores, whereas many of them were significantly related to lower job decision latitude scores and high-strain jobs. All psychosomatic disturbances were significantly associated with personal stress. Logistic regression confirms the protective role of job decision latitude on headache, fatigue, intestinal gas, disturbed sleep and the significant role of subjective stress on all psychosomatic disturbances studied. CONCLUSIONS: Whereas subjective stress is harmful, job decision latitude is a protective factor for several psychosomatic disturbances reported by VDU operators. Improvement in the job decision latitude might be a preventive specific measure in work planning to reduce possible stress-related disorders. Show more

Keywords: Job demands, job decision latitude, employee, Karasek’s Job Content Questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192993

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 303-310, 2019

Authors: Horstmann, David | Remdisch, Sabine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Managers have a significant impact on the health and well-being of employees, particularly when the managers lead in a health-specific way and intentionally foster their employees’ health. However, the data on contextual and individual factors influencing the practice of health-specific leadership is at present limited. OBJECTIVE: To survey the experiences of healthcare managers with health-specific leadership skills and identify the drivers and barriers in the practice of health-specific leadership. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 51 managers from 18 geriatric-care facilities in Germany, between November 2014 and February 2015. The interviews were analysed through qualitative …content analysis. RESULTS: In their reports, managers mentioned several drivers and barriers in the practice of health-specific leadership. These drivers and barriers were found at the leader level, the employee level, and the organizational level. The factors identified relate to the theoretical aspects of health-specific leadership: health value, health awareness, health behaviour, and role modelling. CONCLUSION: For successful practice of health-specific leadership, the findings suggest a more holistic approach for worksite health promotion. Managers should promote personal initiative that benefit employee health, encourage their employees to exhibit healthy behaviour themselves, address organizational resources and restrictions, and gain competencies in change management. Show more

Keywords: Nurses, facilitators, inhibitors, well-being, context

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192994

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 311-321, 2019

Authors: Tur-Sinai, Aviad

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Persons with disabilities face many obstacles in their attempts at social integration, particularly in the labor market. OBJECTIVE: The study investigates patterns of transition among different employment situations by persons with disabilities relative to persons without disabilities. It also studies employment transitions among individuals who hold part-time jobs in relation with their long-term level of physical disability. METHODS: Probability models that explain transitions in employment status among persons aged 25–54 in dependence of possible changes over time in the severity of their disability. RESULTS: Patterns of disability do not persist over time. Improvement …of disability does not increase the share of persons employed in both investigation periods as well as the share of those not employed at both times. Unexpectedly, few people who are not employed and whose disabilities improve manage to join the labor market when their disabilities improve. Also, few who are employed part-time and whose disabilities improve managed to switch to larger posts when their disabilities improve. CONCLUSIONS: The labor market imposes scars on people with disability whose condition improves somewhat, hindering their chances of re-integration into the workforce. To assure them a regular income and employment rehabilitation, public-policy programs should be expanded. Show more

Keywords: Disability, employment, job extent, surveillance, transition

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192995

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 323-340, 2019

Authors: Eagers, Jackie | Franklin, Richard C. | Broome, Kieran | Yau, Matthew K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work experiences have the potential to influence retirement. Occupational therapists’ understanding of the importance of engagement in occupation for active healthy ageing places them in a position to facilitate the work-to-retirement transition. OBJECTIVE: To describe the experience of work from retirees’ perspectives to understand the influence of work on retirement and to discuss the role of occupational therapy in the work-to-retirement transition. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews with retirees were utilised. Thematic analysis identified themes and categories in relation to the experience of work. Categories were related to the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO). RESULTS: …Eleven retirees were interviewed. Twelve categories relating to the experience of work were identified and were captured under three over-arching themes: Varied experiences and motivators; Intersection of work and life; and Impact of context . Categories collectively covered all MOHO concepts. Questions to guide therapeutic reasoning were developed to assist putting MOHO theory in to practice. CONCLUSIONS: Working experiences can be an influencing factor on retirement life. Occupational therapy could enable active healthy ageing through understanding the experience of work and how this can assist older workers to remain in the workforce, find a balance between work and other areas of life, and to choose retirement activities. Show more

Keywords: Retirement, occupational therapy role, occupational transition, active ageing, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192996

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 341-354, 2019

Authors: Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed | Ganie, Zakeera

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has contributed significantly to the burden of health care in many countries. The scarcity of resources in the public sector available for rehabilitation has caused many families to take responsibility for the care and rehabilitation of their family members who sustain a TBI. The roles of employers and caregivers in facilitating the return to work (RTW) process of individuals who sustained a TBI, is now commonly acknowledged. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of employers and caregivers of individuals with mild to moderate traumatic brain injury …who are returning to work after completing a vocational rehabilitation program (VR), using the Model of Occupational Self-Efficacy (MOOSE). METHODS: A qualitative research design was used to explore the experiences and perceptions of caregivers and employers of ten individuals who sustained a mild to moderate brain injury. Semi-structured interviews were completed and data analyzed according to thematic analysis. RESULTS: Five themes emerged: Themes one and two describe the employers’ and caregivers’ experiences and perceptions that hinder the RTW process. Theme three relates to the enabling aspects that the employers and caregivers, as well as the TBI individuals concerned, derive from engaging in the VR process. Themes four and five present the coping strategies that aid the employers and caregivers in playing an ongoing role in the RTW process. All ethical principles with regard to confidentiality, anonymity and informed consent were adhered to in the study. CONCLUSIONS: Occupational therapists (OT) using the MOOSE should regard employers and caregivers as key role players during therapy. Employers should have a better understanding of TBI and allow for sick leave to be granted to individuals with TBI during the rehabilitation process. Caregivers would benefit from establishing a support network for themselves, and by connecting with employers of the individuals with TBI in order to understand the their work environment. Show more

Keywords: Self-efficacy, quality of life, employment, vocational rehabilitation, ICF, employer perception, caregiver perception, qualitative research

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192997

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 355-370, 2019

Authors: Gadegaard, Charlotte Ann | Hogh, Annie | Andersen, Lars Peter

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Aggression theories and cross-sectional studies imply an escalatory pattern of aggressive behaviors; however, this has not been investigated in a follow-up study. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether bullying or conflicts are antecedents of threats and physical violence, and whether threats mediate the relationship between bullying or conflicts and violence. Lastly, it was explored whether associations could be explained through the effect of emotional exhaustion. METHODS: Survey data was collected from a follow-up sample of 3,584 employees from four human service sectors, namely psychiatry, special schools, eldercare, and the prison and probation services. The main analysis uses …hierarchical logistic regression. RESULTS: The analyses showed that frequent /intense conflicts, not bullying, at baseline were significantly related to higher exposure rates of threats (OR  = 4.98, CI = [3.19–7.76]) and violence (OR  = 3.01, CI = [1.96–4.76]) at follow-up. Emotional exhaustion was not confirmed as a substantial mediator. However, the proportion mediated by threats was significant (70%) for the relationship between frequent /intense conflicts and violence. CONCLUSION: This study finds that aggressive workplace behaviors may indeed escalate, particularly within a similar victim-perpetrator relationship, such as between employees and clients. The study highlights the need for de-escalation techniques that transcend specific encounters, recognizing that aggressive behavior may escalate over time. Show more

Keywords: Violence, threats, aggression, bullying, conflicts, escalation, emotional exhaustion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192998

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 371-383, 2019

Authors: Hamja, Abu | Maalouf, Malek | Hasle, Peter

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Garment manufacturers have been adopting lean manufacturing in order to increase productivity and competitiveness. However, the effects of lean on occupational health and safety (OHS) of the workers are not clear. In the literature, there is an ongoing debate about whether lean and OHS are complementary or contradictory. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to contribute to the knowledge base about the relationship between lean and OHS in garment manufacturing. METHODS: The study follows an action research methodology including an intervention aimed at improving productivity and OHS in six garment manufacturers in Bangladesh. Both …quantitative and qualitative methods were used for investigating the effect of lean tools on productivity and subsequently on OHS. RESULTS: We observed instances of improvements of OHS related to the application of three lean tools (VSM, 5 S, Time and Motion Study) in the factories. Furthermore, our results do not indicate negative health effect on workers’ short-term muscular pain, but rather show a statistically significant improvement of workers’ health. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that it is possible to apply lean without adverse effects for workers, if OHS risks are taken into consideration. However, possible long-term effects on workers’ health need to be further investigated. Show more

Keywords: Apparel, productivity, ergonomics, repetitive strain injuries, Bangladesh

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192982

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 385-395, 2019

Authors: Park, Sumin | Park, Heewon | Park, Jaeheung

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The utilized coefficient of friction (uCOF) and the risk of slipping are known to increase as the heel height of shoes increases. The heel base area of shoes can also affect the uCOF. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of the heel base area of high heels and walking speed on the uCOF during walking and their interaction effect. METHODS: The walking experiment was conducted at the speed of 1.0 m/s and 1.25 m/s using four 9-cm high heels having different heel areas (narrow, moderate, wide, and wedge heels). RESULTS: …The peak uCOF was significantly lower when wearing the wide heels than when wearing the other heels. Wearing the narrow and moderate heels reduced the vertical ground reaction force (GRF) owing to the early timing of the peak anterior-posterior GRF and increased the peak uCOF. As the walking speed became faster, the peak uCOF became greater with more increases by the interaction effect when wearing the narrow and moderate heels than when wearing the wide and wedge heels. CONCLUSIONS: These results imply that wearing narrow high heels should be considered carefully, as the potential for a slip could be high owing to the increase in the peak uCOF. If it is inevitable to wear narrow high heels, it is critical to walk at a slower speed than usual. It is better to wear high heels with a wide heel area, e.g., 3 cm*3 cm, rather than narrow high heels or even wedge heels to reduce the possibility of slipping. Show more

Keywords: Slips and falls, high heels, gait biomechanics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192983

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 397-405, 2019

Authors: Rastipisheh, Pegah | Choobineh, Alireza | Razeghi, Mohsen | Kazemi, Reza | Ghaem, Haleh | Taheri, Shirin | Maghsoudi, Ahmad

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Music is an economical, advantageous and reliable means of reducing stress or stress-related problems. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to evaluate the effects of playing music during surgery on the performance of the surgical team through a systematic review of published studies. METHODS: The relevant databases of Medline/PubMed, Scopus and Science Direct were searched up to July 2018 to find related articles. The comprehensive literature search was reduced to 19 articles that met inclusion criteria. RESULTS: The articles comprised 13 studies and reported on the positive effects of music on the performance of …the surgical team. The effects included a more relaxing and pleasant environment, more accurate and precise performance of tasks, a decrease in the mental workload and task completion time, increased situation awareness, a reduction in stress and anxiety and improved memory consolidation. Five studies reported on the negative effects of music during surgery as being a negative impact on task completion, poor auditory performance and increased likelihood of having to repeat requests. The remaining article reported no significant differences between groups compared. CONCLUSIONS: Most studies reported positive effects of music on the surgical team during surgery. These results indicate that it may be possible to improve the performance of the surgical team during surgery while playing controlled music. Show more

Keywords: Music effect, surgical technicians, surgical personnel, operating theatre

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-192984

Citation: Work, vol. 64, no. 2, pp. 407-412, 2019