Work - Volume 65, issue 4

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203123

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 699-700, 2020

Authors: Hemati, Karim | Mirjalili, Sedigheh | Ghasemi, Mohamad Sadegh | Abdolahian, Yeganeh | Siroos, Razeyeh | Sanati, Pardis | Aghilinejad, Mashallah | Dehghan, Naser

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Performing common computer tasks such as pointing, clicking, and dragging requires repetitive movements that cause musculoskeletal disorders in the wrists and hands. Given the growing use of touch screens and touch pens, further studies on the ergonomics of these devices are needed. This study aimed to compare a touch pen and an ordinary computer mouse in terms of movement time, error rate, wrist posture, and comfort of use. METHODS: Performance parameters (movement time and error rate), wrist postures, and comfort when using a mouse and a touch pen were measured based on ISO 9241-9 standard with the …help of 27 participants. For data analysis, paired t test was performed using SPSS version 22. RESULTS: Using the touch pen resulted in better performance parameters than using the mouse (p  < 0.05). Wrist extension and flexion were lower when performing the task with the computer mouse than with the touch pen (p  < 0.05). When using the touch pen to perform the task, ulnar deviation and radial deviation were lower (p  < 0.05). The overall comfort was higher when using the mouse than the touch pen. CONCLUSION: Our results showed that the touch pen had better performance parameters than the ordinary mouse and also resulted in lower ulnar and radial deviations. Given the impact of habit and proficiency on users’ comfort in using input devices, it is reasonable to expect users becoming more comfortable by using touch pens on the long term. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomic assessment, visual analog scale, postural angles, ISO 9241-9

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203124

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 701-706, 2020

Authors: Paladin, Marija | Kogovšek, Tina | Pavlin, Samo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Employees with disabilities make up a significant share of the working population. The group of employees covered by this study is hard to include in research and yet must be researched due to the vulnerable position it holds in the labour market. The topic is quite complex. OBJECTIVE: The article’s main goal is to demonstrate how to implement a survey and adapt a questionnaire for assessing competencies and motivation for training and career changes among older and less-educated employees who have disabilities. METHODS: In the paper, we discuss the approach to adapting a questionnaire and …a survey by undertaking an extensive process of different testing and adaptation stages that is presented in the article. RESULTS: We highlight some obstacles that employees with disabilities face when participating in surveys due to their low literacy skills, as well as low self-esteem, accessibility issues and other general methodological issues in the context of our population. Potential solutions gathered from all phases of the adaptation process are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: Proper survey implementation and questionnaire modification must be ensured if researchers aim to increase the willingness of individuals with disabilities to participate in the survey and to gather quality results. Show more

Keywords: Questionnaire adaptation, survey implementation, competencies assessment, motivation, training, employment changes, employees with disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203125

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 707-719, 2020

Authors: Mishra, Amit | Chawathey, Shreyas A. | Mehra, Priya | Nagarathna, R. | Anand, Akshay | Rajesh, S.K. | Singh, Amit | Patil, Suchitra | Sai Sivapuram, Madhava | Nagendra, Hongasandra Ramarao

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Even though Yoga is useful for prevention of obesity, diabetes and hypertension it is not universally practiced. The purpose of the study was to determine the benefits and barriers confronted by the community members while incorporating Yoga into routine practice and at workplace. OBJECTIVE: This study explored the motivators and barriers to Yoga practice by estimating how these elements can be useful for development and incorporation of Yoga as a workplace activity and as a profession. METHODS: A nationwide multi-centered prospective study was conducted recruiting individuals of different age groups and geographical zones in India. …Participants of Yoga intervention group were administered a questionnaire with 19 items on benefits (YBS) and 18 items on barriers for Yoga practice (BFYS). Data was analyzed using SPSS v21 software. RESULTS: Majority of the participants perceived Yoga improves “physical fitness", “relaxes mind and body”, improves “stamina”, across age groups. “Lifestyle”, “Family commitments”, “Physical over-exertion”, “No Encouragement from family”, “Occupational commitments” and “Few places to do Yoga” were perceived barriers across various geographical zones. Despite knowing the benefits of Yoga, these barriers prevented individuals from integrating it into their daily routine. CONCLUSIONS: The present study may be considered as a starting point for development of Yoga as a workplace activity and a profession based on the perceptions of its various benefits and barriers faced by a large study population spanning an entire nation. Show more

Keywords: Yoga, mindfulness, barriers, benefits, workplace

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203126

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 721-732, 2020

Authors: Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is limited existence of qualitative research on adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), who are transitioning between skills training programs and finding employment in the open labor market, in South Africa. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this current study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of individuals living with ASD, regarding transitioning from a skills training program to working in the open labor market. PARTICIPANTS: The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten participants, who were diagnosed with ASD, and working in the open labor market, as well as five key informants, who …have worked with autistic individuals in a skills training program. METHODS: The data collected, using an explorative, descriptive, qualitative method, were analyzed using thematic analysis, and resulted in three emerging themes. RESULTS: Theme one: The ‘disorder ’ in the workplace –The individual and collective barriers that individuals experience in the workplace are described, including social, emotional, and communication difficulties, as well as the stigmatization experienced by persons with a disability. Theme two: Making the workplace work –The facilitative support that individuals are exposed to, in the form of intervention from occupational therapists, sensory psychologists, and other forms of skills training programs, are described. In addition to supportive intervention, the relationships and networking within, and outside of the workplace, are discussed in theme two. Theme three: What works for me –The individual adaptations made by the participants, in the form of unique coping mechanisms in the workplace, as well as in the home environment, are discussed. CONCLUSION: It was observed that, while there are barriers to the transitioning of autistic individuals into the open labor market, there are enablers that facilitate a less challenging transitioning process, in the form of family and workplace support, as well as skills training, and self-identified coping mechanisms. Show more

Keywords: Return to work, adaptation, coping skills and strategies, adaptation, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203127

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 733-747, 2020

Authors: Dale, Lucinda | Fiedler, Jordan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Orthopedic and obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) surgeons have risks for musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) during work in the operating room (OR). Risks for MSD have not been identified as a result of work outside the OR or during non-work tasks. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to determine risk factors for MSD in an orthopedic and OB/GYN surgeon. METHODS: A case study format and mixed method design were used to gather data by using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) to measure MSD risks in the OR; the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) …to measure surgeons’ upper extremity disability; observation of surgeon office hours; and semi-structured interviews to gather qualitative data. RESULTS: Both surgeons had risks for MSD during occupational performance outside of work, with some risks similar to those experienced at work. Both surgeons had MSD risks during work inside and outside the OR. Both surgeons experienced MSD symptoms exacerbated by work and non-work tasks. CONCLUSIONS: Identifying and reducing MSD risk should include a comprehensive analysis of occupational performance for orthopedic and OB/GYN surgeons. Show more

Keywords: Occupational performance, QuickDASH, Rapid Upper Limb Assessment, surgeons

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203128

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 749-761, 2020

Authors: Strauser, David R. | Rumrill, Phillip D. | Greco, Chelsea

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to describe the Illinois Work and Well-being Model (ILW2 M), a multi-domain framework for conceptualizing the employment development of people with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The model emphasizes the interaction of contextual and career development domains to improve participation in the areas of work, society, community, and home. A brief discussion of potential implications regarding vocational rehabilitation research and service is offered with the overall goal of reinforcing employment development as the foundation of vocational rehabilitation services for adults with TBIs.

Keywords: Traumatic brain injury, career development, well-being, employment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203129

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 763-773, 2020

Authors: Devine, Alexandra | Vaughan, Cathy | Kavanagh, Anne

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Continual reforms of the Australian Disability Employment Services (DES) program aim to improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities, including people with a psychosocial disability who experience high levels of unemployment. OBJECTIVE: To understand contextual factors in the lives of DES participants with a psychosocial disability that influence their engagement with and potential benefits from the DES program in the context of the 2018 reforms. METHODS: Thematic analysis of 30 qualitative interviews with DES participants with a psychosocial disability was conducted as part of the Improving Disability Employment Study between November 2017 to October 2018. …RESULTS: Findings highlight diverse life challenges experienced by DES participants including disrupted education, inadequate access to mental and general health services, and financial and housing insecurity. CONCLUSIONS: The life circumstances of DES participants with a psychosocial disability are often complex and undermine their engagement with employment services and access to labour markets. Despite considerable investment in ongoing reforms, these circumstances continue to undermine the effectiveness of the DES program. Show more

Keywords: Psychosocial disability, employment services, work, social inequities

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203130

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 775-787, 2020

Authors: Stone, Andrea J. | Oakman, Jodi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are a significant problem in the oral health profession. This study explores oral health professionals’ physical and psychosocial working environments in Australian workplaces. METHOD: Twelve oral health professionals from the public and private dental sectors participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Themes were identified and a coding framework developed which was refined and clarified during analysis. RESULTS: Participants reported a range of physical and psychosocial experiences in their work environment. Three major categories of themes were identified: Job Characteristics – particularly equipment unsuited for task and time constraints; Job …Satisfaction – support from management and colleagues was valued, as was the significance of providing oral health care, particularly to children and minority groups; and Individual Factors – MSD and fatigue were reported by most participants. CONCLUSION: Oral health professionals are exposed to a range of workplace physical and psychosocial hazards associated with the development of MSDs. Risk management programs for the prevention of MSDs should take into account the range of physical and psychosocial hazards that oral health professionals are exposed to. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorder, work environment, physical, psychosocial, oral health profession, dentistry.

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203131

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 789-797, 2020

Authors: Hitka, Miloš | Gejdoš, Miloš | Sedmák, Róbert | Balážová, Žaneta

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Population data are gathered using the sampling unit at the appropriate time and due to various reasons (e.g. nutrition survey of the population, style of living, etc.), they can be changed due to trends for longer periods of time. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the paper is to analyse selected anthropometric parameters relevant to the design of the earth-moving machine operator workplace environment and to compare the gathered data to the standard ISO 3411. METHODS: The set of five dimensions and factors of the Slovak adult male population was analysed over the course of the years …2002–2018. RESULTS: A significant increase in the parameter –body weight was observed. In total, mentioned dimension of male population increased by 0.4 kg (0.5%) during the time of analysis. Following the dot plot and linear regression equation the fact that the trend in growth is becoming a global phenomenon in Slovakia can be stated. CONCLUSIONS: In the future, it will be necessary to focus on updating the standards defining the workplace size in this industry sector as well as in others. Show more

Keywords: Earth-moving machinery, anthropometry, workers, workplace, environmental factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203132

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 799-808, 2020

Authors: Alami, Ali | Tehrani, Hadi | Lael-Monfared, Elaheh | Moghaddam, Farokh Sharifi | Boghsani, Gholamheidar Teimori | Jafari, Alireza

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Students use a school bag to carry their school supplies which may not have the required standards and ergonomic factors. OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed to examine the ergonomic factors of schoolbags and their adaptation to the weight of elementary school students. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 721 primary schoolchildren. To collecting data a checklist, which its final version was approved by the experts, was designed by researchers. Data were analyzed by using SPSS ver. 22 and Chi-square test, One-Way ANOVA, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. RESULTS: In …this study, about 90.1% of students used a backpack to carry their items and most students carried backpacks with a weight up to 10% of their body weight. In 43.5% of the students, waist width was appropriate with backpack width at the bottom, and in 96.6% shoulder width was appropriate with backpack width at the top. Multivariate logistic regression showed that girls in compared to boys were more likely tolerated ratio of backpack weight to body weight, and also had more likely proportion of waist width and the backpack width at the bottom. The grades of the first, second, and fourth used more heavy backpacks. Students who their mothers were employee compared to housewives, carried heavier backpacks and had more likely proportion of waist width and the backpack width at the bottom. As the mother’s age increased, the proportion of waist width and the backpack width at the bottom is diminished. CONCLUSION: The schoolbags weight of many students was more than the standard weight, and their schoolbags did not have the required standards. Educational interventions can increase the knowledge of students and parents about the ideal weight of a schoolbag and the criteria for choosing a proper school bag. Show more

Keywords: Children health, backpack standards, elementary school, anthropometrics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203133

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 809-820, 2020

Authors: Edgelow, Megan | Harrison, Laura | Miceli, Meghan | Cramm, Heidi

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Trauma and stress-related mental health conditions can impact a person’s ability to participate in work and can cause disruptions in employment. Best practice guidelines for occupational therapy return to work interventions with these populations are limited. OBJECTIVE: To identify and describe occupational therapy return to work interventions for trauma and stress-related mental health conditions. METHODS: Using a scoping review methodology, research databases were searched for papers relating to occupational therapy, return to work interventions, and trauma and stress-related mental health conditions. Three reviewers independently applied selection criteria and systematically extracted information. Data were extracted and …synthesized in a narrative format. RESULTS: The search produced 18 relevant papers. The interventions described were more often person-focused versus environment- and occupation-focused, and many were carried out by multidisciplinary teams, making it difficult to identify best practices for occupational therapists in this area. CONCLUSION: Emerging practices include the Swedish “ReDO” intervention, support for active military members to manage operational stress to remain at work, and multidisciplinary team treatment. Further research, including studies with direct focus on the implications of occupational therapy interventions for return to work with trauma and stress-related mental health conditions, is required. Show more

Keywords: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), return to work, occupational therapy, stress, trauma

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203134

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 821-836, 2020

Authors: Schwartz, Adam | Gerberich, Susan Goodwin | Albin, Thomas | Kim, Hyun | Ryan, Andrew D. | Church, Timothy R. | Green, Deirdre R. | McGovern, Patricia M. | Erdman, Arthur G. | Arauz, Rony F.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Approximately 2.38 million janitors are employed in the U.S. While high physical workload may explain a lost-work days rate 2.7 times greater than other occupations, little is known about the association between janitors’ physical workload, mental workload, and stress. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the associations between physical (ergonomic) and mental workload exposures and stress outcomes among janitors. METHODS: Questionnaire data, focused on ergonomic workload, mental workload and stress, were collected from Minnesota janitors for a one-year period. Physical workload was assessed with Borg Scales and Rapid Entire Body Assessments (REBA). …Mental workload assessment utilized the NASA Task Load Index (TLX). Stress assessments utilized single-item ordinal stress scale (SISS) and Perceived Stress Scale-4 (PSS-4) measures. Descriptive and multivariable analyses, including bias adjustment, were conducted. RESULTS: Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for ergonomic workload (task frequency) effects on SISS were: REBA (1.18 OR, 1.02–1.37 CI); Borg (1.25 OR, 1.00–1.56 CI); combined REBA and Borg (1.10 OR, 1.01–1.20 CI). Mental workload was associated with higher PSS-4 levels (0.15 Mean Difference, 0.08–0.22 CI) and a 3% increased risk for each one-unit increase in the SISS scale (1.03 OR, 1.02–1.05 CI). CONCLUSIONS: This research demonstrated a moderate effect of physical and mental workloads on stress among janitors. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, injury epidemiology, NASA TLX, Perceived Stress Scale

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203135

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 837-846, 2020

Authors: Moran, Jacxelyn | Fitch, Taylor Jennelle | Villanueva, Gabriela | Quadir, Mohammad Morshedul | Chien, Lung-Chang | Alamgir, Hasnat

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The prevalence of urinary symptoms and infections among female garment factory workers in Bangladesh – a large developing country – is largely unknown. Garment sector is this country’s main economic growth engine. OBJECTIVES: This paper focuses on garment industry workers and compares the findings with another group of low socioeconomic status working women. METHODS: Urinary tract symptoms (UTS) were determined by self-reported survey including International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire-Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ-FLUTS) and urinary tract infection (UTI) was determined among a subset population by urine dipstick tests. RESULTS: Data were …collected from 310 garment workers and 297 comparison workers. About one third of garment workers (31.94%) and comparison workers (29.97%) could take up to 3 toilet breaks in a day. Garment workers reported to be more sexually active and menstruation was more common among them compared to comparison workers. They reported a significantly higher prevalence of malodorous urine and vaginal discharge. Garment workers were found to have a significantly higher ICIQ-FLUTS score of voiding than comparison workers (0.44 vs. 0.27; p -value = 0.0167). Among the study respondents, 148 garment workers and 134 other workers provided urine samples and 21 (7.45%) were found to have UTI. After considering all the risk factors in multivariate model, garment work had a significant impact on the probability of having UTI with Odds Ratio of 5.46 (p -value = 0.0374; 95% CI = 1.10, 26.97) compared to other workers. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the prevalence and burden of urinary symptoms and infections among female worker populations in Bangladesh. Show more

Keywords: Developing countries, low socioeconomic status, working women, garment workers of Bangladesh

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203136

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 847-856, 2020

Authors: Thisted, Cecilie N. | Labriola, Merete | Nielsen, Claus V. | Jul Håkonsen, Sasja | Bjerrum, Merete B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sickness absence due to depression has indirect and direct costs for employers. Whilst employers play a key role in establishing supportive work environments and providing work adjustments, there is a lack of knowledge on employers’ attitudes to support employees with depression. OBJECTIVE: To investigate employers’ attitudes to manage employees’ depression, focusing on the employers’ opportunities and challenges to support employees with depression. METHODS: Individual interviews were conducted with five employers. Interview transcripts were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Four categories emerged from the interviews: Attitude to and understanding of depression affect supportive …practices; Dilemma between supporting employees with depression and accommodating workplace needs; The employer-employee relationship influences supportive practices; and Work accommodations target the employee ’s ability to work. CONCLUSION: Employers may need a wider understanding of depression and the importance of the work environment influencing work disability due to depression. Studies should investigate how knowledge of work disability due to depression can be transferred to workplaces. Conflicting agendas of the vocational rehabilitation stakeholders poison opportunities to support, and initiatives may aim to promote employers’ understanding of the benefits of collaborating with other stakeholders. The involvement of decision-makers to provide initiatives that support employers in managing employees with depression to promote their work participation is recommended. Show more

Keywords: Mental disorders, workplace, vocational rehabilitation, return to work, qualitative research

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203137

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 857-868, 2020

Authors: Ma, Jinshan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Investigation of the safety management efficiency in a coal mine aims to improve its safety management level thus ensuring coal mining safety. However, the safety management efficiency is affected by many factors especially for those coal mines operated underground. Furthermore, the constraint factors that are difficult to be identified and eliminated may impede safety management efficiency. OBJECTIVE: This work aims to explore the constraints affecting safety management efficiency through a mathematical model accompanied by some effective measures guided by the theory of constraint (TOC). METHODS: An index system for coal mining safety management efficiency (CMSME) …is first established. Then a mathematical model roughly identifying the constraint factors is constructed. The principle of the proposed model is a comparison with the changes of the ratio of integrated CMSME and the ratio of each impact factor over a certain period. Thus, a constraint factor may be one whose ratio changes at a slower rate than that of the integrated CMSME. Following this, some measures are adopted to identify one, or more, real constraints. Finally, the constraints may be broken by internal, or external, means. RESULTS: A case study from Quandian coal mine verified the proposed method: the constraints affecting CMSME could be identified and broken through during the production. This research currently is applied to coal mining activities in a few coal mines, and it will be widely used in the future. CONCLUSIONS: This paper provides a novel method investigating the constraints affecting CMSME and breaking through them. The case study shows that breaking through constraints during the production is beneficial to CMSME. Furthermore, a coal mine with a high CMSME index may still, at some time, have one, or more, bottleneck constraints. Show more

Keywords: Constraints, coal mining, safety management efficiency, model

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203138

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 869-880, 2020

Authors: Albizu, Evelyn J. | de Oliveira Gonçalves, Cláudia Giglio | de Lacerda, Adriana Bender Moreira | Zeigelboim, Bianca Simone | Marques, Jair Mendes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Several health conditions among professional fishermen have been reported. Among the risks to the health of fishermen, it should be noted that high noise levels cause hearing loss and general health problems. OBJECTIVE: to investigate the effects of exposure to occupational noise on hearing in professional fishermen at the main large-scale commercial fishing center in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study, 466 Brazilian commercial fishermen participated in the study, all males, ages range 18–67 years. A total of 15 vessels were included in the study. The first phase involved assessment of the sound pressure levels (SPLs) …in the vessels, the second phase involved the use of a questionnaire and audiological assessment. RESULTS: Most compartments registered SPLs greater than 80 dBA and the noisiest compartment was the engine-room, where the vessel pilot works. Among the fishermen, tinnitus was the most commonly reported symptom (48.63%). A higher prevalence of hearing loss was observed in engine-room keepers. Longer the length of time in service, and consequently, exposure to noise (in years), were associated with higher auditory thresholds. CONCLUSION: the tolerance limits to noise exposure were exceeded according to legislation. Fishing activities are associated with noise-induced hearing loss, with the risk increasing with the length of service. Show more

Keywords: Hearing, worker’s health, fishing, noise

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203139

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 881-889, 2020

Authors: Valenzuela-Gómez, Sergio-Alberto | Rey-Galindo, John-Alexander | Aceves-Gonzlez, Carlos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: When performing, classical guitarists interact with many elements which constitute their own “workstation”. One of those elements is the support for guitar positioning. Support dimensions, form and materials may determine posture and affect the musician’s comfort and performance. OBJECTIVE: To propose design requirements for new supports for guitar positioning, based on postural assessment, anthropometric criteria, self-efficacy and comfort perception. METHODS: Nine healthy Classical Guitar students were recruited. A postural assessment was undertaken using REBA, and 3DSSPP software with three different supports for guitar positioning. After the use of each support, a questionnaire about self-efficacy and …comfort perception was completed by the participants. RESULTS: The higher scores of risk and a significant difference (ANOVA, p  =≤05) regarding the left leg elevation were found with footstool usage. However, this one was identified by participants as the best support in terms of self-efficacy and comfort assessment. CONCLUSIONS: To improve performance and prevent physical injuries for guitarists, there is a need for designing guitar positionings supports based on ergonomics principles. This paper proposes eleven guidelines for designing these supports. Show more

Keywords: Postural assessment, classical guitarists, ergonomic risks, support for guitar positioning, design guidelines

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203140

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 891-901, 2020

Authors: Glimne, Susanne | Brautaset, Rune | Österman, Cecilia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Working in front of computer screens is visually demanding and related to adverse eye symptoms. Occurrence of glare further increases visual fatigue. OBJECTIVE: This paper presents results from an examination of visual ergonomics in control room environments at two Swedish process industries. METHODS: Visual conditions were examined and evaluated in nine control rooms and eighteen process operators answered questions about their perceived workload and visual experiences. RESULTS: When working in the control rooms, the mental workload was rated significantly higher by the participants, compared to experienced performance. The operators further experienced significantly higher …visual fatigue and blurred vision compared to double vision and sore eyes. Visual demands were increased in conditions where contrast glare was present, as well as frequent changes of focusing distances, and low contrast between background and characters in computer screens. CONCLUSIONS: Suboptimal visual working conditions in the control rooms contributes to increased visual demands on the operators. Presence of glare is leading to visual fatigue and an unnecessary high mental load. The findings support the relevance of considering principles of general and visual ergonomics when designing and organizing work in control rooms. Workstation design should also be flexible to allow for individual and contextual adjustments. Show more

Keywords: Visual demands, workload, contrast glare, lighting design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203141

Citation: Work, vol. 65, no. 4, pp. 903-914, 2020