Work - Volume 69, issue 1

Authors: Dias, Natália Fonseca | Tirloni, Adriana Seára | Cunha dos Reis, Diogo | Moro, Antônio Renato Pereira

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Rest breaks are an organizational measure to reduce the high risk of upper limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders (UL-WMSDs) to which slaughterhouse workers are subject. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effect of different work-rest schedules on ergonomic risk in poultry slaughterhouse workers. METHODS: A total of 36 repetitive tasks was selected in a Brazilian slaughterhouse. Using the Occupational Repetitive Action (OCRA) Checklist, the level of exposure of workers to risk factors of UL-WMSDs in two work-rest schedules was evaluated. In the real condition, 6 rest breaks of 10 minutes were performed, and in the simulated condition, 3 …rest breaks of 20 minutes. RESULTS: The right side of the body presented a higher score on the OCRA Checklist (72%of the tasks) than the left side (p  = 0.037) in the real condition. Additionally, the OCRA score (18.3±2.5) was significantly lower (p  < 0.001) than the simulated condition (21.9±3.0). It was verified that the risk level in simulated condition remained the same in 13 (36%) tasks, while in 23 (64%) tasks there was an increase in the risk level. CONCLUSIONS: Work-rest schedule of 6 breaks of 10 minutes was better than 3 breaks of 20 minutes to reduce the risk of UL-WMSDs in poultry slaughterhouse workers. Show more

Keywords: Pause, risk assessments, musculoskeletal disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213471

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 215-223, 2021

Authors: Lemke, Michael K. | Oberlin, Douglas J. | Apostolopoulos, Yorghos | Hege, Adam | Sönmez, Sevil | Wideman, Laurie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Long-haul truck drivers are disproportionately exposed to metabolic risk; however, little is known about their metabolic health and the role of physical activity and other risk factors in metabolic outcomes. OBJECTIVE: This study compares truck drivers’ insulin sensitivity, and associations between metabolic risk factors and insulin sensitivity, with those of the general population. METHODS: Survey, anthropometric, and biometric data were collected from 115 long-haul truckers, which were then compared to the general population data using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) dataset. The quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) was used to estimate …insulin sensitivity. RESULTS: Truck drivers had lower QUICKI scores than the general population cohort. Sagittal abdominal diameter and exercise were predictive for QUICKI among combined cohorts. Waist circumference and perceived health were more predictive for QUICKI among truck drivers, and sagittal abdominal diameter and income were more predictive for QUICKI among the general population. CONCLUSIONS: Long-haul truckers appear to represent a subset of the general population regarding the impact of physical activity and other metabolic risk factors on QUICKI. Accordingly, comprehensive efforts which target these factors are needed to improve truckers’ physical activity levels and other metabolic risks. Show more

Keywords: Diabetes, exercise, commercial transport, abdominal obesity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213472

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 225-233, 2021

Authors: Živković, Snežzana | Milenović, Miodrag | Krstić, Ivana Ilić | Veljković, Milan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychosocial risks and work-related stress are one of the most complex, most significant and most challenging problems that organizations around the world are facing. Stress negatively affects all participants in the organization and significantly contributes to negative health consequences and economic outcomes. OBJECTIVE: With timely identification and adequate assessment of psychosocial risks, it is possible to create healthy workplaces and healthy organizations where employees are satisfied and motivated. The paper will present the results of the research of psychosocial risks on a large sample of respondents in the Republic of Serbia. METHODS: A questionnaire was …distributed to 1,212 participants of which 1,140 answered all the questions asked. Data from the questionnaire were analyzed using multiple regression analysis, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Spearman’s correlation coefficient and Pearson’s chi-square test (χ2). RESULTS: The results of multiple regression analysis showed that all psychosocial risks taken together are statistically significantly (p < .001) and explain 24%of the variance of the criteria. CONCLUSIONS: Psychosocial risks identified as statistically significant predictors are Labor Demands, Interpersonal Relations, Lack of Support, Work Role and Job Uncertainty. All predictors are statistically significant predictors at the level.01. Show more

Keywords: Psychosocial risk, stress, work process, working environment, Serbia

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213473

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 235-245, 2021

Authors: Maxner, Andrew | Gray, Heather | Vijendren, Ananth

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown high rates (47–72%) of self-reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) in surgeons of the head and neck. Physical requirements in the workplace, individual factors (e.g. poor posture, obesity) and psychosocial factors have been identified as risk factors. Establishing biomechanical risk factors may help prevent further development of WRMDs in this population. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this critical review was to source studies that identified the biomechanical risk factors for WRMDs in this surgical sub-specialty. METHODS: Searches were conducted of Medline, CINAHL, and AMED databases from 1980 until September 2018. RESULTS: …A total of 182 article were identified. Exclusion criteria lead to 163 full-text articles being screened, generating a total of 6 articles for review. The aims of the included studies varied significantly. Surgeons spend the majority of operating time in static, asymmetrical positions. Surgical loupes/headlamps significantly increased cervical spine loading. Articulated surgical arm supports provided optimal ergonomic conditions. Performing surgical operations with the surgeon in standing or sitting had no effect on task performance or demand. Physical fatigue was also measured in both positions. CONCLUSIONS: A combination of equipment-based and patient/surgeon position-based factors predispose surgeons to biomechanical risk factors. Studies of greater methodological quality are required. Show more

Keywords: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, ENT surgeons, ergonomic analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213474

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 247-263, 2021

Authors: Roy, Priyanka | Grandi, Annalisa | Pira, Enrico

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In November 2016, the government of India declared 86%of the total money in circulation as demonetized. This policy was brought into effect overnight, and it had great macro socioeconomic impact not only on the economy of the country but on the common people, especially the socioeconomically challenged. While several researchers have focused on, and continue to investigate, the effects of demonetization on the economy, its impact on the psychosocial health of workers has not yet been studied. OBJECTIVE: To provide an exploratory investigation of the psychosocial consequences of demonetization on the workers in Indian tea gardens. …METHODS: A qualitative research approach was employed. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with seven key informants (clinicians and executives/managers), and 36 tea garden workers were involved in six focus groups. Collected data were analyzed using the Template Analysis technique. RESULTS: From the data analysis, five main themes emerged concerning the psychosocial factors involved in demonetization effects: socioeconomic changes, organizational consequences, workplace interpersonal relationships, work-family interface, and psychophysical symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study highlighted the significant impact that demonetization had on tea gardens at both the organizational and individual levels. Show more

Keywords: Demonetization, risk factors, tea garden, India, tea pluckers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213475

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 265-274, 2021

Authors: Costa, Henrique | Saavedra, Francisco | Fernandes, Helder Miguel

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Several studies have suggested that trait and ability-based measures of emotional intelligence (EI) contribute to the promotion of well-being in adults. However, this relationship has not been sufficiently explored among adolescents. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to: i) investigate the associations between EI dimensions and well-being indicators (self-esteem, life satisfaction and social anxiety) in adolescents; and ii) analyze the effect of sex and age on dimensions of EI. METHODS: The sample consisted of 1066 adolescents (57.9%girls and 42.1%boys), aged between 11 and 18 years (M = 14.36; SD = 1.58). Participants completed sociodemographic and validated psychosocial measures. …RESULTS: Correlation analysis indicated that EI dimensions (self-emotion appraisal, use of emotions and regulation of emotions) were positively and moderately correlated with self-esteem and life satisfaction, whereas associations between EI and social anxiety dimensions were small and negative. Boys reported higher levels of self-emotion appraisal, use of emotions and regulation of emotions, whereas girls showed higher levels of other-emotions appraisal. Age was negatively associated with the use of the emotions dimension and positively correlated with the emotional appraisal of others, although both correlation coefficients were small. CONCLUSIONS: Our study findings suggest the need and importance of implementing emotional education practices during adolescence. Show more

Keywords: Emotional intelligence, well-being, sociodemographic factors, adolescents

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213476

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 275-282, 2021

Authors: Motter, Arlete Ana | Silva, Daniel | Santos, Marta

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This article aims to demonstrate the ways in which port workers collectively respond to task demands, work organization and functional turnover instituted in a Portuguese port. METHODS: Based on both the theoretical debate on the cooperative aspects during the performance of the activity and the contextual research matrix of the activity ergonomics, the investigation conducted focused on the room for maneuvering that is assigned to the work teams and, more specifically, how collective action materializes more visibly in the elaboration of new rules of action with a view to the arbitration between the preservation of health, the …guarantee of safety and the response to the required performance levels. RESULTS: The results of the analysis of port activity make evident the development of a high degree of operational synchronization between the professional skills articulated in the team, specialized communication in certain work subprocesses, and strategies for collective surveillance of risks. Show more

Keywords: Collective work, cooperation, safety, regulation, port activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213477

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 283-293, 2021

Authors: Lecours, Alexandra | St-Hilaire, France | Daneau, Patrice

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related mental health problems are a primary cause of disability and lead to the absence of 500,000 workers each week in Canada. There is a growing body of literature suggesting integrated approaches of prevention are necessary to improve mental health at work. The involvement of numerous stakeholders inclusive of government agents, employers, and workers is recommended. However, only minimal information is available to suggest actions workers may adopt toward an integrated approach of prevention to improve mental health at work. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to identify behaviors workers may adopt to foster mental health …at work. METHODS: Following a descriptive qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with researchers, professionals, and workers. Data were analyzed using a template analysis strategy. RESULTS: A total of 49 concrete behaviors were identified, grouped into ten sub-themes, and three broad themes. These main themes identify those behaviors that appear to be useful throughout the prevention continuum: 1) adopting a reflexive practice, 2) acting for one’s own mental health, and 3) acting for mental health of others. CONCLUSIONS: In harmony with the integrated prevention approach, this study offers a framework to organize workers’ concrete actions contributing to mental health. Show more

Keywords: Organizational behaviors, well-being at work, template analysis, qualitative research

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213478

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 295-306, 2021

Authors: Choobineh, Alireza | Museloo, Behbood Khani | Ghaem, Haleh | Daneshmandi, Hadi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There are a few studies conducted on job stress dimensions and their relationship with Low Back Pain (LBP) among Iranian nurses. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the current study was to investigate the association between job stress dimensions assessed via Demand-Control-Social Support (DCS) and Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) models and prevalence of LBP among Iranian hospital nurses. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 495 randomly selected nurses of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS) participated. Demographic/occupational questionnaire, the Persian version of the Job Content Questionnaire (P-JCQ) and the Persian version of the ERI Questionnaire (P-ERIQ) were used for …data collection. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 19) using descriptive statistics, independent sample t -test, and logistic regression. RESULTS: The LBP prevalence was found to be 69.9%. The means±standard deviations of job stress dimensions were obtained as follows: decision latitude: 64.67±6.82, physical job demands: 15.52±2.6, social support: 23.18±3.65, psychological job demands: 38.02±4.98, effort: 8.73±2.62, reward: 23.12±5.31, over-commitment: 12.25±3.09, and effort-reward ratio: 0.86±0.3. The findings revealed that the work experience (OR = 1.56), psychological job demands (OR = 1.082), and effort-reward ratio (OR = 3.43) were predictors for LBP among the study population. CONCLUSION: The prevalence rate of LBP among studied nurses was high. About half of nurses had high psychological demands, low decision latitude and low social support. Based on the effort-reward ratio, nurses had experienced high level of stress. Interventional programs and coping strategies for reduction of work-related stress and, subsequently, prevention of LBP are recommended among hospital nurses. Show more

Keywords: Effort-reward imbalance model, hospital nurse, job content questionnaire, job stress, low back pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213479

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 307-314, 2021

Authors: Chang, Ku-Chou | Lee, Hsuei-Chen | Yen, Chu-Ling | Liao, Yi-Han | Hung, Jen-Wen | Wu, Ching-Yi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) is common in personal care attendants because this profession requires much physical work. Information about the prevalence of LBP and LBP-associated risk factors in this group is limited. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the 1-year prevalence of LBP and identify LBP-associated factors in female hospital-based personal care attendants. METHODS: Forty-seven female hospital-based personal care attendants were recruited. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to investigate the prevalence of LBP during the recent 12 months. Participants completed a personal traits and associated factors questionnaire. Physical fitness and the knowledge test of …body mechanics were assessed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore LBP-associated factors. RESULTS: The 1-year prevalence of LBP was 46.8%. The strongest LBP-associated risk factor was poor abdominal muscle endurance, followed by insufficient knowledge on the test of body mechanics and higher psychological stress. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate that the prevalence of LBP in female hospital-based personal care attendants appears to be high. Preventive programs should be initiated to reduce LBP-associated risk factors, such as improving abdominal muscle endurance, providing education in the proper use of body mechanics, and providing psychological intervention services for female hospital-based personal care attendants. Show more

Keywords: Physical fitness, knowledge of body mechanics, psychological stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213480

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 1, pp. 315-322, 2021