Work - Volume 65, issue 3

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203122

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 471-472, 2020

Authors: Yalcinkaya, Gamze | Sengul Salik, Yesim | Buker, Nurullah

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The time spent on mobile phone during daytime is increasing with the rapid life-style in young population for different purposes such as texting, calling etc. and the younger population is more dependent on networking with them. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to compare joint repositioning error angle in the cervical region between groups with regard to their daily calling duration on smartphone and to determine the relationship between daily calling duration and potential cervical pain and disability. METHODS: Sixty-three university students were included in the study. Participants were divided concerning to their …durations of daily calling durations on smartphones. The joint-repositioning-error sense, craniovertebral angle, cervicothoracic muscle strength, and endurance of neck flexors were measured and potential pain and disability levels were assessed. RESULTS: University students who spending twenty minutes or more for calling on smartphone daily had significantly higher joint repositioning error sense. Additionally, it was determined that there was fair relationship between the daily calling time on smartphone and potential neck pain and disability. CONCLUSIONS: The prolonged calling duration on smartphone could affect cervical joint repositioning error sense in university students. This might be related to potential discomfort on cervical region in the further period. Show more

Keywords: Proprioception, neck pain, smartphone, students

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203102

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 473-482, 2020

Authors: Eggleston, Sara Taylor

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can be prevented by avoiding trauma caused by poor posture, compression, force, and repetition. Neutral postures are recommended to avoid MSDs. OBJECTIVE: This study introduces Mouse With Your Arm™ (MWYA) methodology which promotes sitting back in a chair, using the chair’s armrest for forearm support at relaxed elbow height, matching surface and armrest height, and keeping the mouse on the surface edge. This position allows optimal task chair use, facilitates movement and neutral postures, avoids compression and contact stress, and is effective in mitigating MSDs. METHOD: MWYA was applied and measured in …the field for more 23 years providing over 3,500 individualized assessments to integrate a participant’s unique characteristics, reported health concerns, tasks, tools, and environment to achieve and sustain whole-body neutral and comfortable working postures. RESULTS: Previous research has consistently recommended use of forearm support by a desk, apparatus, or wrist rest, and resulted in non-neutral, static postures and measured health consequences. By using armrests for support, MWYA avoids the potential of MSDs as can be caused by these previously endorsed postures. CONCLUSION: By applying the five MWYA principles, computer users comprehend neutral posture and put forth the effort essential to creating healthy human computer relationships. Show more

Keywords: Disability management, health, ergonomics, rehabilitation, posture, holistic

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203103

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 483-495, 2020

Authors: Lee, Kyung-Sun | Hwang, Jaejin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: One-handed lifting commonly occurs in the industry. Specific guidelines of proper heights during one-handed lifting could be valuable information to design or to assess the risk of work environment. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the maximum acceptable height and comfortable height during one-handed vertical lifting by gender, participant height, hand, and object weight. METHODS: Based on the psychophysical method, 72 males and 50 females, divided into four different height groups, determined their maximum acceptable and comfortable heights by each hand (left and right) and various object weights (1 kg, 3 kg, 5 kg, and …8 kg). RESULTS: Males revealed significantly greater maximum acceptable heights (males: 157 cm; females: 135 cm) and higher comfortable heights (males: 104 cm; females: 96 cm) compared to females. The participants’ heights, which hand was used to lift, and the object weight were significant factors in determining the maximum acceptable height for both males and females. The multiple linear regression model of the maximum acceptable height showed more robust predictive power (R2  = 0.55) compared to the comfortable height (R2  = 0.20) as a function of gender, participant height, hand, and object weight. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that gender, participant height, hand, and object weight are important variables to consider when determining the proper surface height of one-handed vertical lifting. Using the robust predictive model, an appropriate maximum acceptable height could be suggested based on the material handler’s anthropometric information and object weight. Show more

Keywords: One-handed lifting, psychophysics, maximum acceptable height, comfortable height

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203104

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 497-507, 2020

Authors: Marshall, Emily Gard | Power, Melissa | Edgecombe, Nancy | Andrew, Melissa K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As the Canadian population ages, there is a need to improve long-term care (LTC) services. An increased understanding of the positive work experiences of LTC staff may help attract more human health resources to LTC. OBJECTIVE: To describe the perceptions of the roles and work of nurses and care assistants in LTC from interprofessional perspectives. METHODS: This study used qualitative data collected from a larger mixed-methods study, Care by Design. The qualitative phase explored the lived experience of LTC staff from the perspectives of key stakeholders via focus groups and individual interviews. RESULTS: …One central theme that emerged from the study was that of LTC staff going “above and beyond” their clinical duties to care for residents. This above and beyond theme was categorized into subthemes including: 1. familial bonds between residents and staff; 2. staff spending additional time with residents; 3. the ability to provide comfort to family members; and 4. staff dedication during end-of-life care. CONCLUSIONS: The findings show that staff develop a kinship with residents, demonstrate respect towards residents’ families and provide comfort at the end-of-life. In emphasizing these themes of positive and fulfilling work, the present study provides insight into why staff work in LTC. Show more

Keywords: Nursing home, licensed nursing staff, care aides, satisfaction, valuing

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203105

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 509-516, 2020

Authors: Malcolm, Nicole | Boyd, Linda | Giblin-Scanlon, Lori | Vineyard, Jared

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Demand of the work environment can cause stress. Stress can cause anxiety, depression, reduced productivity, job dissatisfaction, and health issues. Unfortunately, little attention has been placed on the stressors of dental hygienists. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine occupational stressors related to personal, environmental, and physical stressors and their relationship to job satisfaction and burnout of dental hygienists. METHODS: Survey research was conducted with a convenience sample of practicing dental hygienists (n  = 763). The survey instrument consisted of 10 scales from the New Brief Job Stress Questionnaire and four questions related to …burnout. RESULTS: Job satisfaction was affected by work overload, anxiety, depression, and emotional demands. Leaving clinical dental hygiene in the next year was affected by physical stress (p  < 0.05), and burnout was related to the emotional demands (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Dental hygiene has a significant emotional component to the profession and these emotional demands were more likely to lead to burnout and affect job satisfaction. Physical demands were related to dental hygienists leaving clinical dental hygiene. Attention needs to be paid to these stressors to enhance retention and job satisfaction of dental hygienists. Show more

Keywords: Burnout, dental hygienist, job satisfaction, occupational stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203106

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 517-524, 2020

Authors: Gajšek, Brigita | Ðukić, Goran | Butlewski, Marcin | Opetuk, Tihomir | Cajner, Hrvoje | Kač, Sonja Mlaker

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Manual “picker-to-part” order picking takes place in a labour-intensive and time-consuming working environment where humans are the central actors and co-determine the effectiveness and efficiency of the process. Throughout Europe, work-related musculoskeletal disorders affect millions of workers, especially in the logistics sector, and cost employers billions of euros. OBJECTIVE: This paper studies how order pickers relate the use of technology as well as their relationship with the logistics company to their well-being, health and productivity. METHODS: To obtain data, a survey consisting of questions regarding work characteristics, health problems and the logistics company’s relationship with …employees was conducted in Poland, Slovenia and Croatia. RESULTS: Workers who carry most items manually experience more health problems than cart and forklift users. The most common complaint is lower back pain – only 6% of order pickers (n  = 221) never experienced it. The use of barcode or RFID scanner/terminal/smart phone correlates with more health problems than the use of other technologies. Participation in the selection of transport means or in training on health preservation can reduce the perceived health problems. CONCLUSIONS: Workers’ perception of the impact of the applied technology on health and productivity can differ from the impact that is calculated or measured. Through their relationship with employees, logistics companies can influence employees’ perception of their health problems. Show more

Keywords: Picker-to-part, productivity, human factors, work-related musculoskeletal disorders, technology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203107

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 525-536, 2020

Authors: Podrekar, Nastja | Kozinc, Žiga | Šarabon, Nejc

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sedentary behavior has been recognized as an important risk factor in the development of several chronic diseases. Active workstations have been proposed as an effective countermeasure. While such interventions likely reduce sedentary time, concerns regarding the effects on work performance and cognitive function remain. OBJECTIVE: To use meta-analyis to critically evaluate the work performance and cognitive function effects of cycle and treadmill desks as workplace interventions against sedentary behavior. METHODS: In February 2018, a data search was conducted. Parallel and crossover design studies evaluating workplace interventions compared to conventional seated conditions were included. …RESULTS: Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Both interventions reduced typing speed (cycling: SMD = –0.35, p  = 0.04; treadmill: SMD = –0.8, p  < 0.001). The number of typing errors significantly increased during cycling interventions (SMD = 0.39, p  = 0.004). No effect was found for the selective attention tests. However, there was an improvement in recall ability (SMD = 0.68, p  = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Cycle and treadmill desks affect work performance, but most likely not due to a decrease in cognitive function. Further research is needed to determine whether the degree of work performance decline is acceptable, considering the many positive effects of implementing active workstations in the office environment. Show more

Keywords: Active workstation, bike desk, workplace cycling, workplace ergonomics, workplace intervention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203108

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 537-545, 2020

Authors: Donelly, Michelle | Gordon, Scott | Bowling, Alison

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Among Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD] countries, Australians with disabilities are most at risk of experiencing poverty. Employment equity is essential for wellbeing, health and social inclusion. Reported differences in income level between people with and without disabilities vary widely between 0 to 47% depending on productivity assumptions. Contradictory to these assumptions, empirical research has demonstrated that people with disabilities often have equivalent skills, superior loyalty and lower absentee rates. OBJECTIVE: To investigate if there is a significant difference in the annual remuneration, hours worked and age-related career trajectory of graduates with and without disabilities. …METHODS: Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to identify employment equity between graduates with and without disabilities in the 2011 Australian Census. RESULTS: Graduates with disabilities received a mean weekly income that was 53% of the income of graduates without disabilities and 85% of the mean hourly income. Female graduates with disabilities received the lowest mean income of all subgroups at 35% of the mean weekly income of male graduates without disabilities CONCLUSION: This corroborates previous research that reports people with disabilities have difficulty obtaining employment, experience insecure employment and have fewer career and promotional opportunities. The income gaps were significantly greater than gaps previously reported. Show more

Keywords: Social inclusion, wage disparity, gender, indigeneity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203109

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 547-561, 2020

Authors: Pope-Ford, Regina | Pope-Ozimba, Jeannette

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dentistry is a profession where musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent. Physical demands and static awkward postures increase the risks of dentists developing musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, researchers have identified psychosocial factors that can influence the health of workers. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research is to present self-reported pain regions and to assess psychosocial work factors as they relate to dentistry. METHOD: Fourteen dentists participated in the study. Data was collected via a questionnaire administered prior to the start of and during the study. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. RESULTS: All dentists …self-reported to be in good to excellent health and only 50% sought medical treatment for work-related discomfort and pain. Thirteen of 14 reported being at least occasionally mentally and physically exhausted after work. A musculoskeletal disorder–work hour relationship model was created. Feedback given was linked to four psychosocial factors –job demand, job control, social interactions, and job future and career issues. CONCLUSIONS: The dental profession is considered a highly cognitive profession where much attention has been placed on the physical demands due to awkward postures. While physical demands are validated, additional research will further validate the link between psychosocial and mental and physical demands. Show more

Keywords: Stress factors, dentists, cumulative trauma disorders, health, ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203110

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 563-571, 2020

Authors: Andersen, Lars Peter | Biering, Karin | Hogh, Annie | Gadegaard, Charlotte Ann | Conway, Paul Maurice

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related violence and threats are frequent in human service sectors. Although previous studies have identified several psycho-social work environmental risk factors for work-related violence and threats, the research domain still remains mainly descriptive and non-theoretical in nature. OBJECTIVE: Using the Job-Demands-Control model we analysed the relationship between the psycho-social work environment and work-related threats and violence. METHOD: Using a two-wave (2011 and 2015) longitudinal study of 2678 participants, we analysed the main and interactive effects of quantitative demands and job control on exposure to work-related violence and threats. RESULTS: High work demands and …low job-control were associated with elevated risk of work-related threats in 2011 and in 2015. The associations of work demands and job control and work-related violence were mixed. There were not statistically significant interaction effects between high demands and low job control on neither work-related violence nor threats. CONCLUSION: In sectors where work-related threats and violence are likely to occur, risk prevention may also require improving the work conditions for employees, more specifically by reducing work-demands and increasing job control for instance by differentiating between important and less important work demands and by implementing self-autonomous work-teams may be a way to increase job control. Show more

Keywords: Work-related violence and threats, Job-Demands-Control model, longitudinal study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203111

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 573-580, 2020

Authors: Jin, Sangeun | Kim, Jaehyuk | Kim, Daemin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The use of tablet during the office work is on the rise, but the biomechanical response of tablet use under various sitting postures is not well understood. OBJECTIVE: This study quantitatively measured changes in trunk kinematics under three sitting conditions (raised leg, neutral leg, and lowered leg) while using a tablet. METHODS: Fifteen participants were asked to sit on a chair with three different postures while staring at a handheld tablet or gazing straight ahead with a bare hand, and the head flexion, lumbar flexion and trunk inclination were captured with electrical goniometers. …RESULTS: The results revealed significantly less lumbar flexion (12.8%) and trunk inclination (28.0%) while using the tablet compared to the empty hand condition (p  < 0.001), but at a significant cost of increased head flexion (90.8%; p  < 0.001). Further, while using the tablet, participants showed less head flexion in the raised leg condition (p  < 0.001) than in the others (9.7% and 7.5%, respectively), but larger trunk inclination and lumbar flexion were required (p  < 0.001 in both). CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, the lower extremity sitting posture significantly changed the way to observe the tablet by adopting more head flexion in neutral and lowered leg conditions or more trunk flexion in raised leg condition. Show more

Keywords: Lumbar flexion, head flexion, trunk inclination, sitting posture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203112

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 581-589, 2020

Authors: Friedman, Carli

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite the ability to and interest in work, people with disabilities are employed at significantly lower rates than nondisabled people. Employment disparities highlight persistent social and cultural stereotypes that equate disability with unemployability. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between employment of people with disabilities and disability prejudice in the United States. This study had the following research question: how does disability prejudice impact state disability employment rates? METHODS: To explore these questions, we used secondary data about state disability employment (2016), as well as disability prejudice data from 270,000 …nondisabled people residing in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. RESULTS: Findings from this study revealed states with higher disability prejudice scores have lower disability employment rates, suggesting employment disparities are intertwined with disability prejudice. CONCLUSIONS: Cultures and systems must be rid of harmful disability stereotypes to ensure people with disabilities can truly partake in their human and civil rights. Show more

Keywords: Employment discrimination, ableism, implicit prejudice, unemployment, disability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203113

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 591-598, 2020

Authors: de Souza, Jefferson M. | Pinto, Rafael Z. | Tebar, William R. | Gil, Fernanda C.S. | Delfino, Leandro D. | Morelhão, Priscila K. | da Silva, Claudiele C.M. | Oliveira, Crystian B.S. | Christofaro, Diego G.D.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Teachers perform repetitive movements all day, which can cause pain in body regions. This article analyzes the association of pain with sleep quality in this population. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to analyze the relationship of musculoskeletal pain and sleep quality in teachers from public schools. METHODS: The sample consisted of 242 teachers, selected in a random process. Musculoskeletal pain and sleep quality were evaluated by using a questionnaire. The association between sleep quality and musculoskeletal pain was evaluated using the chi-square test. The magnitude of the associations was verified by Binary Logistic …Regression, adjusted by sex, age, BMI, and socioeconomic status. RESULTS: Teachers with poor sleep quality presented higher body mass index (BMI) values when compared to teachers with good sleep quality (27.9 vs 26.0, p  = 0.012). Teachers with poor sleep quality were approximately twice as likely to report thoracic pain (OR = 2.16[95% CI = 1.12–4.16]), wrist pain (OR = 3.28[95% CI = 1.18–9.07]), low back pain (OR = 3.09[95% CI = 1.29–7.41]), and ankle/foot pain (OR = 2.83[95% CI = 1.32–6.08]). CONCLUSIONS: Teachers with poor sleep quality were approximately twice as likely to present pain in several body parts. Our findings revealed that poor sleep quality was significantly associated with musculoskeletal pain in Brazilian teachers of public schools, regardless of confounding factors. Show more

Keywords: Adults, body pain, sleep disorders, epidemiology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203114

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 599-606, 2020

Authors: Paulsson, Sofia Åström | Schmidt, Lisa | Eriksson, Tomas | Nyman, Teresia | Parmsund, Marianne | Torgén, Margareta | Svartengren, Magnus

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Employers are required to get expert advice whenever needed to ensure a safe work environment. Providers of Occupational Health Services (OHS) could be such experts, but their services are usually used to provide health-related support to individuals, not preventive Occupational Health and Safety Management (OHSM) or other group-focused interventions. OBJECTIVE: To investigate how contracts with OHS providers in Sweden are established and implemented. METHODS: Written OHS contracts were reviewed, and follow-up interviews were conducted with Human Resource (HR) managers, management, safety representatives, and OHS professionals in seven organizations. RESULTS: Generally, the HR departments …drew up the contracts with the OHS providers. The contracts were not integrated with the companies’ occupational health and safety management. Managers lacked knowledge on how to utilize services offered by their OHS provider. Terms and conditions of contracts were found to be inconsistent with services actually utilized. CONCLUSIONS: The procurement and implementation process promotes reactive rather than preventive interventions. Employers should include managers and safety representatives in procurement- and implementation processes and define relevant and measurable goals regarding the collaboration. Show more

Keywords: Human resource manager, purchase, contract, occupational health and safety management, work environment expertise

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203115

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 607-615, 2020

Authors: Nordenmark, Mikael | Landstad, Bodil | Hedlund, Marianne

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Vocational rehabilitation is important for supporting long-term sick-listed employees in returning to work or continuing in working life. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyse self-confidence and hope for the future among people on sick leave in Norway who joined a self-help group, with a special focus on the importance of educational level. METHODS: 109 persons who completed a 20-week program at a rehabilitation centre in the middle of Norway during the years 2007-2012 answered questions related to the importance of emotions as either motivating or discouraging forces influencing the individual’s return to …work. The response rate was 52 percent. RESULTS: Eighty-five percent of participants who joined a self-help group stated that the group helped them to tackle everyday life better than before. Low-educated participants in the self-help group, to a greater extent than high-educated, stated that the self-help group had increased their self-confidence and hope for the future. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Most of those who participated in the self-help group stated that joining a group increased their self-confidence and hope for the future. Motivational factors, such as hope for the future and self-confidence, can be important factors in the rehabilitation process, as they can enhance sick people’s motivation to participate in rehabilitation and re-think their future prospects of returning to work. Show more

Keywords: Mental illness, vocational rehabilitation, psychological processes

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203116

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 617-623, 2020

Authors: Widyanti, Ari | Ramadhiar, Anandari | Fista, Bela | Rahmawati, Novia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mothering and caring for children have been associated with a decrease in mothers’ wellbeing. Limited research has been conducted from the ergonomics perspective of mothering and caring for children due to the belief that being a mother is not considered an occupation. OBJECTIVE: To observe the ergonomics of mothering and caring for children (ergoMOMics) among Indonesian mothers and the prevalence of related musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). PARTICIPANTS: Five hundred and twenty-five Indonesian mothers. METHOD: The prevalence of MSS was assessed using Nordic Body Map questionnaire. An adapted questionnaire on mothering and child care activities …and their consequences were also used. RESULTS: Most Indonesian mothers reported some negative consequences of mothering and child care activities, including MSS in the back (50%), neck (26%), and upper shoulder (43%). Demographic data that significantly influences MSS includes the domicile category and help from others. Mothers in large cities reported higher MSS than those residing in small- to medium-sized cities (t (523) = 7.43, ρ < 0.01). The help of family members (commonly children’s grandparents) significantly increased reported MSS (F(2, 524) = 3.57, ρ = 0.02). A specific child care activity that influences MSS is the lifting for children. CONCLUSIONS: Mothering and child care are very demanding activities that can result in MSS. Therefore, steps must be taken to prevent and overcome these symptoms. Show more

Keywords: Mothers’ wellbeing, demanding activities, ergonomic perspective, Nordic Body Map

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203117

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 625-633, 2020

Authors: Katsevman, Gennadiy A. | Sedney, Cara L. | Braca III, John A. | Hatchett, Lena

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Needlestick injuries among healthcare professionals continue to be an occupational hazard, frequently and incorrectly regarded as low-risk, and exacerbated by underreporting. We aimed to investigate rates of needlestick injury, reasons for underreporting, and how explicit announcements that patients are “high-risk” (i.e., human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis, or intravenous drug abuse history) might affect the actions of those at risk of sustaining an injury. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was administered to medical students (MS), nursing students (NS), and residents. RESULTS: 30/224 (13%) of MS, 6/65 (9%) of NS, and 67/126 (53%) of residents experienced needlestick injuries. 37% …of MS, 33% of NS, and 46% of residents attributed “lack of concentration” as cause of injury. Residents had the lowest percentage of underreporting (33%), with rates of 40% and 83% among MS and NS, respectively. Top reasons for non-reporting included the injury being perceived as “trivial” (22%) and patient being “low-risk” (18%). A majority stated pre-operative “high-risk” announcements should be required (91%), and would promote “culture of safety” (82%), reporting of injuries (85%), and increased concentration during procedures (70%). CONCLUSIONS: We recommend routine announcements during pre-operative time-out and nursing/resident hand-offs that state a patient is “high-risk” if applicable. We hypothesize such policy will promote a “culture of safety,” situational awareness, and incident reporting. Show more

Keywords: Needlestick injury, underreporting, checklists, briefings, prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203118

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 635-645, 2020

Authors: Chang, Ku-Chou | Liao, Yi-Han | Lee, Hsuei-Chen | Wu, Ching-Yi | Yen, Chu-Ling | Lin, Pei-Li | Hung, Jen-Wen | Huang, Yu-Ching | Chou, Man-Chun | Li, Yi-Hui | Lin, Hui-Min

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and psychological stress in home-based female migrant care workers (MCWs) remain unknown. OBJECTIVE: To 1) investigate the prevalence of MSDs and psychological stress and associations between subjective questionnaires on MSDs/psychological stress and biomedical examinations, and 2) identify the risk factors related to MSDs and psychological stress. METHODS: This study recruited 85 MCWs. Data was collected using questionnaires, urine analysis and X-ray examinations. Correlations between subjective questionnaires and biomedical examinations were investigated. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to explore risk factors. RESULTS: The prevalence of MSDs and psychological …stress were 70.6% and 37.6%, respectively. MSDs were commonly reported over the neck, lower back, shoulders, and upper back. There was a moderate correlation between MSDs and abnormal X-ray findings. Risk factors associated with MSDs included higher education level, frequent transferring and bedside care activities, lacking caregiver training in Taiwan, inadequate sleep, and drinking tea or coffee. Risk factors associated with psychological stress included inadequate salary, lacking caregiver training in Taiwan, and insufficient knowledge of body mechanics techniques. CONCLUSIONS: MSDs and psychological stress were common among home-based female MCWs. Educational level, frequent transferring and bedside care activities, and lack of caregiver training in Taiwan, were the most dominant risk factors. Show more

Keywords: Work-related musculoskeletal pain, biomedical markers, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203119

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 647-659, 2020

Authors: Ilić Petković, Aleksandra | Nikolić, Vesna

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dynamic and intense socio-economic, scientific and technological development has both positive and negative effects on the business world. Due to increasing problems of work-related stress, the issue of stress management has arisen. Primary stress management and proactive interventions in work-related stress prevention are specifically activated. In this regard, the issue of educational needs of employees for the prevention of work-related stress is of particular importance. OBJECTIVE: The basic concern that has drawn our attention is whether employees generally show the desire and need to adopt the knowledge in the field of work-related stress prevention and relief and …whether they are supported by the management of their business organization. METHODS: We used several methods to conduct this research: survey, scaling and comparative method. The comparative method was used for the analysis of legal documents in the field of occupational safety and health in six Balkan countries with the aim of determining the legal obligations of employers in managing workplace stress. The research population consisted of employees in small and medium-sized enterprises in the city of Kraljevo (the Republic of Serbia), while the research sample was determined by a random sampling method and included 450 respondents. RESULTS: Despite the recommendations of international organizations, the employers in most countries are not legally bound to deal with work-related stress management. The results have shown that there is a correlation between work-related risks/stressors and educational needs of employees for learning or acquiring knowledge in the field of work-related stress prevention. Employees express the desire to become acquainted with the possibilities of overcoming work-related stress. CONCLUSION: Employees’ education and training have an invaluable role and considerable importance in primary, work-related stress management. The knowledge about the causes and mechanisms of work-related stress development is an important step towards its prevention. The research has shown that employees express the need for acquiring knowledge to prevent stress at work. In this regard, it is necessary to provide legally binding support of the manager in order to undertake the activities of work-related stress management. Interventions should target work-related stress at its source with a focus on prevention rather than an individual approach whose long-term benefits are uncertain. Show more

Keywords: Educational needs, stress, prevention, regulation, stress management

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203120

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 661-669, 2020

Authors: Joshi, Anurag | Kiran, Ravi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The purpose of this research is to examine the influence of music and yogic breathing for the management and control of stress. OBJECTIVE: To discover the most effective stimuli to handle stress by measuring the effect of types of musical drills and yogic breathing on engineering students using the Galvanic Skin Response Sensor Meter (GSRSM). METHODS: The present study attempts to study the effectiveness of music and yoga drills for relieving and managing stress. The study used a stratified random sampling method selecting engineering students from four streams. The GSRSM was used as a tool …to record the responses after 300 seconds for the experimental and the control groups of 200 students each. Each group was comprised of 52 females (26%) and 148 males (74%). RESULTS: The experimental group reported reduction in mean value in Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) when they underwent deep yogic breathing, listened to religious hymns and listened to flute music. CONCLUSION: On the basis of the results, the researchers suggest that all three techniques i.e practicing yogic breathing, listening to religious hymns and listening to flute music were effective in reducing the stress level of engineering students. Listening to flute music emerged from these three drills, as the most effective stimulus for stress management. Show more

Keywords: Yogic breathing, managing stress, GSR sensor meter, skin conductivity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203121

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 671-678, 2020

Authors: Rostamzadeh, Sajjad | Saremi, Mahnaz | Fereshteh, Taheri

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Handgrip strength is a measurement of upper extremity functionality and an indicator of overall physical ability. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to compare maximum handgrip strength (MGS) between manual workers and office employees and to investigate if the expected difference is related to the anthropometric dimensions of the workers’ hands and forearms. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study with a sample of 1740 male workers (905 light manual workers; and 835 office employees), aged 20–64 years. Maximum voluntary contractions were obtained using a JAMAR dynamometer according to the methodology proposed by the American …Society of Hand Therapy (ASHT). The highest value obtained from three trials was considered as the MGS for each side. Six anthropometric dimensions (i.e ., hand length, palm length, forearm length, hand breadth, wrist circumference and forearm circumference) were measured by digital caliper and tape measure. RESULTS: Maximum handgrip strength of light manual workers (52.7±8.5 kg) was significantly higher than that of office employees (47.3±8.4 kg) (p  < 0.001). Maximum handgrip strength was positively correlated with Hand breadth (r  = 0.781 for light manual workers and r  = 0.766 for office employees; p  < 0.001) and Forearm circumference (r  = 0.741 for light manual workers and r  = 0.752 for office employees; p  < 0.001); the only dimensions which were significantly different between the two studied job groups. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study revealed that light manual workers are approximately 12.4% stronger than office employees in terms of maximum handgrip force. It is therefore imperative to consider the observed differences in clinical, workstations, and hand tool designs in order to increase efficiency and comfort at work. Show more

Keywords: Anthropometric factors, dynamometer, occupational group, workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203100

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 679-687, 2020

Authors: Narimoto, Lidiane Regina | Costa Belussi, Simone Emmanuelle Alves | Camarotto, João Alberto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Harvesting is one of the most critical phases in any crop once it determines the quality of raw material obtained and future production for the next seasons. Sugarcane crops are more uniform allowing the complete mechanization of harvesting. Citrus crops, on the other hand, present variability and require special handling to preserve quality so the harvesting process remains manual preponderantly. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research was to explore how the distinct characteristics of sugarcane and citrus crops influence the design of respective instruments, promoting a discussion about design-in-use in Brazilian fields and its role to improve …productivity and safety. METHODS: Multiple case studies were conducted at 9 sites: 3 sites of sugarcane crops and 6 sites of citrus crops. Task analysis, observations, interviews, questionnaires and video footage were undertaken at each site. RESULTS: The modifications made by the harvesting teams in all studied sites aimed the appropriateness of objects to local conditions and real needs, transforming them in instruments, improving reliability, safety, health and productivity. CONCLUSIONS: In agriculture, a sector where working conditions still need to be significantly improved especially in developing countries, design-in-use appears as a solution for the problems faced by workers in the field, as an essential mean to maintain health and productivity at work. Show more

Keywords: Instrumentalization, inventiveness, ergonomics, equipment design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203101

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 689-698, 2020