Work - Volume 70, issue 2

Authors: Jahangiri, Mehdi | Zinat-Motlagh, Kiarash | Ghaem, Haleh | Zinat-Motlagh, Fazel | Kamalinia, Mojtaba | Banaee, Sean

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Organizational factors including a proper safety culture are among the important contributors of major accidents in process industries OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates and compares the dimensions of safety culture maturity (SCM) and resilience engineering (RE) among 423 employees of government-owned drilling companies (GODC) and private drilling companies (PDC) located in Azar oilfield, Ilam province, southwest of Iran. METHODS: The maturity of safety culture was measured using the modified version of Hudson safety culture maturity questionnaire and RE performance was studied using the resilience analysis gird (RAG). The relationship between RE and the …SCM was discussed according to Hollnagel conceptual model. RESULTS: The results showed that lowest and highest levels of SCM in all dimensions were observed in the pathological (11.75%) and reactive (28%) levels, respectively. However, high levels of SCM have not been established in any of the studied drilling companies. The status of SCM dimensions and levels as well as RE performance was better in PDC compared to GODC which is consistent with their safety performance lagging indicators. CONCLUSION: This study showed that RE abilities could be improved by establishment of high levels of safety culture maturity. Show more

Keywords: Safety culture maturity, resilience engineering, drilling company

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213583

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 443-453, 2021

Authors: Afolabi, Funmilayo Juliana | Beer, Paul de | Haafkens, Joke A

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Automobile car repair requires intensive activities. Several studies have described different work characteristics of automobile artisans’ work. However, the effects of physical work conditions (PWC) on worker health outcomes are largely unknown. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore which of the PWC have high negative impact on worker’s health outcomes, and whether the same conditions affected both illnesses and injuries. METHODS: A cross-sectional design and a multistage method were used to randomly select 632 workers. A structured self-reported questionnaire was used to obtain information on dependent variables (illness/injuries) and independent variables (PWC). The results were …analysed using the chi-square test and logistic regression analysis, while controlling for occupation. RESULTS: Workers who manually lifted heavy items or orally sucked petrol regularly reported illnesses and injuries. Long work experience and long working hours were significantly associated with illness, whereas prolonged standing was significantly related to injuries. Contrary to our initial expectation, workers who regularly worked at 2 m or higher above the ground level tended to report less illness and injury. CONCLUSIONS: PWCs were more significantly related to work-related illnesses than injuries. Therefore, interventional programs for automobile artisans should focus on the PWC that increase worker vulnerability to work-related illnesses. Show more

Keywords: Injury, illness, worker, developing country

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213584

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 455-466, 2021

Authors: Johansson, Ulla | Nilsson, Annika Öst | Falkdal, Annie Hansen | von Koch, Lena | Hellman, Therese | Eriksson, Gunilla

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The ReWork-Stroke program was developed to meet the need for a person-centered rehabilitation program addressing return to work after stroke and was provided by occupational therapists (OTs). OBJECTIVE: To gain knowledge on the implementation process of the ReWork-Stroke program, the mechanisms of impact, and the contextual factors that might have affected the process. METHODS: A case study design was used. Data were collected by interviews with two ReWork-Stroke providers and their logbooks of 13 clients. Content analysis was applied. RESULTS: The ReWork-Stroke program varied in duration (12–48 weeks) and was largely implemented according …to plan regarding components and how they were provided. It was mostly delivered at the workplace. Mechanisms of impact were building alliances with clients, providing intervention at the workplace, informing about stroke, assigning co-workers as tutors for clients, and collaboration between stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS: The ReWork-Stroke program can be implemented according to plan and is a flexible person-centered program in which stakeholders, coordinated by an OT, plan and take actions, mostly at the workplace, for the client’s return to work. A key factor was recognizing the current work ability after stroke. Further program development includes a more structured evaluation and technical solutions for supporting stakeholders. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, rehabilitation, vocational, stroke, coordinator, ABI

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213585

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 467-478, 2021

Authors: Eddy, Emily Z. | Tickle-Degnen, Linda | Evenson, Mary E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational therapy practitioners with the simultaneous working role of fieldwork educator support the growth of the profession by supervising students, but little is known about their reported burnout, compassion fatigue, and compassion satisfaction levels, and if specific work characteristics predict those levels. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research was to: 1) assess the current levels of compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, and burnout in occupational therapy fieldwork educators through The Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL), and 2) to explore how professional characteristic variables correlate and predict the measured constructs of compassion fatigue, burnout, and compassion satisfaction. …METHODS: A cross-sectional design was used, and participants were recruited from a convenience sample to complete the ProQOL and a work characteristic questionnaire. RESULTS: On the average, 117 fieldwork educators scored higher on the subscale of compassion satisfaction when compared to those of the normed group. Linear regression analyses revealed that a higher number of roles and greater years working predicted higher compassion satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: This study contributes to understanding the experiences of fieldwork educators in multiple roles, their reported levels of compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, and burnout, and the potential for development of personal, educational and organizational resources to support professional quality of life indicators within the role of fieldwork educator. Show more

Keywords: Practice education, working roles, compassion fatigue, burnout, compassion satisfaction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213586

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 479-491, 2021

Authors: Satır, Benhür | Erdoğan, Filiz Çelikçi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The match between classroom furniture and students’ anthropometry is an important factor in students’ academic performance. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to investigate the ergonomic suitability of the classroom furniture to the students, and to propose design suggestions for both desks and chairs. METHODS: We analyzed the ergonomics of classroom furniture that students aged 10–14 years old in Turkey currently use. To this end, we selected Maltepe Primary Education School, one of the largest schools in the Çankaya district of Turkey’s capital city, Ankara, in which to conduct the study. A sample of 119 students was …selected, and seven anthropometric measurements were taken for each of these students. We then calculated five relationships between the dimensions of the furniture and the students’ anthropometric measures. RESULTS: We observed high levels of mismatch rates, with an average of 66.6%and high values of over 95%for the relations of two furniture measures, seat depth (related with buttock-popliteal length) and seat-to-desk height (related with elbow height, sitting). Each anthropometric measure was applied a fit probability distribution, and based on those distributions; we suggested the most appropriate classroom furniture dimensions in order to maximize suitability of the furniture to the anthropometric measures in terms of fixed-size (i.e., non-adjustable) classroom furniture. CONCLUSIONS: High mismatch rates can be reduced by 52.0%on average based on the classroom furniture dimensions suggested in this study. Show more

Keywords: Classroom furniture design, ergonomic suitability, mismatch rate

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213587

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 493-508, 2021

Authors: Ejlertsson, Lina | Heijbel, Bodil | Brorsson, Annika | Troein, Margareta | Andersson, Ingemar H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is a lack of research regarding factors promoting recovery during the workday and effective interventions. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate how different intervention activities may impact employees’ experiences of recovery at the workplace. METHODS: Customized intervention activities based on qualitative results and a participatory approach were integrated among the employees at six primary health care centres (PHCCs; n  = 166) during one year. Recovery and workplace factors were measured with a questionnaire at the start and end of intervention, and also in a control group (15 PHCCs; n  = 328). Group differences were tested (Chi-2) and explanatory factors …compared by logistic regression models. RESULTS: The proportion of employees reporting workday recovery increased in the intervention group (19.9%to 29.1%; p  = 0.01), whereas the control group showed no significant change. Recovery was explained by self-reflection and reflection with co-workers. After intervention, having influence on work situation, energy-building experience, and opportunity for laughter also contributed significantly to recovery. CONCLUSIONS: The results contribute to work recovery research by confirming that a customized intervention may have an impact on employees’ recovery experiences. The study showed that considering the factors of reflection, influence, and companionship can positively impact workplace recovery. Show more

Keywords: Work, occupational health, primary health care

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213588

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 509-519, 2021

Authors: Biman, Saranga | Maharana, Satyapriya | Metri, Kashinath G | Nagaratna, R

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Diamond industry employees often experience musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and stress, contributing to a low quality of life (QoL). Yoga is an ancient discipline of mind-body practice Yoga has numerous health benefits. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the efficacy of workplace yoga in improving stress, musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and QoL among employees of the diamond industry. METHODS: One-hundred sixty-six employees of the diamond industry between the ages of 20 and 60 participated in the study. Participants were assigned to either yoga (n  = 84) or waitlist (n  = 82) groups. The yoga group received one hour of yoga, four …days a week for three consecutive months. Participants in the waitlist group followed their daily routines. Musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, stress, and QoL were assessed at baseline and after three months. RESULTS: One-hundred fifty-five employees completed the study. The yoga group showed significant (p  < 0.05) improvement in pain, perceived stress, fatigue, and QoL domains after three months compared to baseline. The waitlist group showed no significant improvement in any of the measures. In the post scores comparison between the groups revealed a significant difference between the groups. CONCLUSION: Workplace yoga found to be a useful, cost-effective and feasible intervention in improving stress, musculoskeletal pain, fatigues and quality of life among employees of the diamond industry. Yoga may be implemented in the workplace as a wellness program at the workplace. Show more

Keywords: Health, mind-body medicine, occupational health, pain, diamond industry

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213589

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 521-529, 2021

Authors: Bergin, Adele J. | Tucker, Michelle K. | Jimmieson, Nerina L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Focusing on employees with psychological strain, this research draws on Fredrickson’s ‘undoing hypothesis’ to examine praise and recognition from one’s supervisor as an organizational resource. OBJECTIVE: A model is tested in which psychological strain is a mediator in the positive relationship between role demands and employees’ intentions to take sick leave and seek medical advice, and positions supervisor praise and recognition as a buffer of psychological strain on such intentions. METHODS: The model was tested using two Australian samples in the tourism sector, consisting of motel workers (n  = 104) and museum workers (n  = 168). …RESULTS: For museum workers, but not motel workers, there was a positive indirect effect of each role demand on sick leave intentions through psychological strain that weakened as a function of supervisor praise and recognition. The proposed moderated mediated model was supported for both samples in regards to intentions to seek medical advice. CONCLUSIONS: This research contributes new evidence regarding the antecedents of employees’ intentions to take sick leave and seek medical advice for work stress-related problems. It also contributes to the limited evidence regarding supervisor praise and recognition as a protective factor for employees exhibiting the symptoms of psychological strain. Show more

Keywords: Occupational stress, role demands, employee strain, sick leave, medical advice

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213590

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 531-546, 2021

Authors: Knani, Mouna | Fournier, Pierre-Sébastien | Biron, Caroline

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Presenteeism is generally viewed as a symptom of organizational or individual dysfunction and is rarely considered as a behavioral response to positive triggering factors. Our study examines this issue in small enterprises (SEs), which are an unexplored environment in terms of presenteeism. OBJECTIVE: Through in-depth analysis, this study aims to understand the positive and negative factors that impact presenteeism in the context of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with a particular focus on SEs. METHODS: We adopt a qualitative methodological approach in which we conducted 17 semi-structured interviews with employees and owner-managers of SEs with …between 20 and 49 employees. RESULTS: Our thematic analysis shows that presenteeism can be explained by factors related to pressure to attend work, by individuals’ constraints and commitment, by organizational and individual characteristics and by a congenial work environment. Presenteeism can also be a type of “therapy” which helps individuals to avoid focusing on being sick and enables them to stay active and avoid social isolation. CONCLUSIONS: Our study differs from earlier research by providing a more in-depth analysis of the positive and negative factors that trigger presenteeism. This article will help to expand the current theoretical knowledge about presenteeism and encourage a more holistic interpretation of the phenomenon. Show more

Keywords: Conceptualization, psychosocial risks, positive factors, motivational factors, small enterprises (SEs)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213591

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 547-559, 2021

Authors: Pongener, Sentichuba | Patel, Thaneswer | Pal, Anubhab | W, Temjen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In agricultural farming operations, the incompatibility between operators’ physical capability and labor demands in the operation of tools and equipment results in a decreased performance, productivity, and safety related measures. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to collect a biomechanical database of push/pull strengths for initiating the development of a human-centered design of equipment that is not available for the intended user group, i.e. Nagaland. METHODS: The sample consisted of 399 male and 271 female agricultural workers from the five districts of Nagaland, aged 18 to 65 years, classified into three age groups. In …the process of push and pull force measurements, the elbow angle of the participants were set to 30–120°, 120–130°, and 130–180°. All tests were performed in triplicates with a resting period of two minutes between every consequent recording. RESULTS: The results showed that isometric push and pull strength values (Mean±SD) for males were 18.91±4.67 kg and 17.98±3.97 kg respectively and 13.07±4.06 kg and 11.98±3.33 kg for females respectively. The results of independent samples from student’s t -test demonstrate that there was a substantial variance in the isometric push and pull strength values (p  < 0.05) between the genders across the various age spectrum. CONCLUSIONS: With ageing, muscular strength for push-pull strength in males and females reduce. The study reports that the recommended value of male and female isometric push-pull strength for agricultural workers of Nagaland should be 5th percentile of female data i.e. 6.40 and 1.71 kg respectively. Show more

Keywords: Hand strength, push force, pull force, agriculture, equipment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213592

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 561-569, 2021

Authors: Das, Banibrata | Gangopadhyay, Somnath | Ghosh, Tirthankar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the major health hazards among farmers. Pre-adolescents are mainly associated with agricultural work due to poor socioeconomic conditions. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to implement a new ergonomics aid for the betterment of job procedures and improvement of productivity, health, and safety of the preadolescent farmers. METHODS: 100 male and 100 female preadolescent farmers were randomly selected from the villages of Tarakeswar, West Bengal, India, to evaluate and reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders, physiological stress. Modified Nordic questionnaires, Body Part Discomfort (BPD) scale, and handgrip strength were assessed before and after using …the ergonomics aid. RESULTS: The results of the study show that there was a significant change (decrease) in discomfort in the lower back, wrists, shoulder, and hands among preadolescent farmers when using the newly designed ergonomic aid. Handgrip strength increased and physiological stress was decreased among preadolescent farmers in post-intervention than pre-intervention in just after work conditions. Productivity has been increased in farming by decreasing absenteeism from work with the use of ergonomic aid. CONCLUSION: This study concludes that productivity has been increased in farming by decreasing absenteeism from work as well as by using the ergonomic aid the discomfort feeling has been decreased markedly. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomic aid, preadolescent farmers, Nordic questionnaire, BPD scale, handgrip strength

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213593

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 571-582, 2021

Authors: Vinstrup, Jonas | Jay, Kenneth | Jakobsen, Markus Due | Andersen, Lars L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While the psychosocial work environment within the hospital sector is a topic of great debate, surveys assessing stress often do not differentiate between stress related to work- and private life. Identifying risk factors associated with these domains of daily life would help improve policies as well as target relevant treatment options. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate associations between stress during to work- and private time with Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS). METHODS: Perceived stress was assessed by the full version of CPSS (scores 0–40) as well as by two single-item questions related to …stress related to work- and private life, respectively. Associations between these single-items and CPSS were modelled using general linear models controlling for lifestyle factors. RESULTS: Overall, stress due to both work- and private time was strongly associated with CPSS scores. In the full population (n  = 3,600), “never experiencing stress” during both work- and private time was associated with low stress scores (6.0, 95%CI 5.1–6.9). “Never experiencing” work-related stress but experiencing private time stress “very often” was associated with high stress scores (22.4, CI 19.8–25.1). Likewise, experiencing work-related stress “very often” but “never experiencing” private time stress was also associated with high stress scores (22.2, CI 20.3–24.2). Lastly, Spearman’s r between the full CPSS and the two single-item questions about work- and private time stress were 0.62 (p  < 0.0001) and 0.52 (p  < 0.0001), respectively, while the two items were only weakly correlated (r = 0.32). CONCLUSION: The present study shows that perceived stress due to both work and private time is strongly associated with Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale scores. The results illustrate the feasibility of using single-item questions related to work- and private time in identifying domain-specific risk factors for psychosocial stress. Show more

Keywords: Biopsychosocial, hospital, psychometrics, work environment, nurse, Cohen’s perceived stress scale

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213594

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 583-589, 2021

Authors: Wallin, Stina | Rauhala, Auvo | Fjellman-Wiklund, Anncristine | Nyman, Pia | Fagerström, Lisbeth

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Occupational self-efficacy (OSE) is an appropriate adaption capability to react to continuous changes in work life today. While self-efficacy is an important component in work context, there is less knowledge regarding older workers’ OSE. OBJECTIVE: This study examined the relationship between work ability, OSE and work engagement among a middle-aged workforce, and whether there were any differences between age groups and between professionals in different work context. METHODS: Data were collected by questionnaire, which included Work Ability Index (WAI), Occupational Self-Efficacy Scale, and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. RESULTS: A …total of 359 home care workers and engineers (response rate 43%) participated. The average age was 54 (SD±5.3) years, 69%were women. The results of logistic regression analyses revealed an association between WAI, OSE (OR 0.66; 95%CI 0.52 to 0.86) and work engagement (OR 0.61; 95%CI 0.47 to 0.78). Higher OSE and work engagement were related to higher work ability. No difference in OSE (5.9; ±0.8) between professional groups was seen, but the home care workers scored considerably higher work engagement (5.1; ±0.9) than the engineers (4.5; ±1.3). CONCLUSIONS: Improving OSE could be worthwhile to support work ability among middle-aged workers, despite dissimilarities in work context and educational level. Show more

Keywords: Self-concept, middle-aged, occupational gerontology, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213595

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 591-602, 2021

Authors: Vooijs, Marloes | Bossen, Daniël | Hoving, Jan L. | Wind, Haije | Frings-Dresen, Monique H.W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A guideline for occupational health professionals (OHPs) is developed which provides them with knowledge and skills to optimize their guidance to people with a chronic disease. OBJECTIVE: Developing a training programme to acquire and apply knowledge and skills provided by the guideline, through a bottom-up approach. METHODS: First, OHPs training needs were explored using focus groups. Second, learning objectives were formulated by the researchers. Third, experts in the field of education were interviewed to explore relevant training activities. Fourth, researchers integrated all the results into a training programme. RESULTS: …Based on the training needs identified, we formulated 17 learning objectives, e.g. being able to name influential factors and effective interventions, increase the individual client’s role, and increase communication with a professionals to enhance work participation of people with a chronic disease. The training activities identified by experts for OHPs to acquire and apply knowledge and skills were: a case study, role play, discussion of best practices and interviewing stakeholders. These were all performed in plenary sessions or small groups. CONCLUSIONS: Training needs, -activities and learning objectives were integrated into a six-hour training programme. This bottom-up approach can serve as input for others developing training programmes to transfer knowledge and skills to OHPs. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, guideline adherence, occupational health physicians, return to work medical education

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213596

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 603-614, 2021

Authors: Li, Kai Way | Li, Wenbao | Peng, Lu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Manual demolition tasks are heavy physical demanding tasks which involve forceful exertion of sustained pushing. They result in muscle fatigue which could lead to musculoskeletal disorders. Assessments of maximum endurance time (MET) are essential in understanding the developing of muscle fatigue for these tasks. OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of handle height and load conditions on the MET, and to establish MET models for the simulated demolition tasks. METHODS: Twenty three male participants performed simulated demolition tasks under three loads and three handle heights conditions until …they could not do so any longer. Their METs and ratings of perceived exertion were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: The results showed that both load and handle height were significant (p  < 0.0001) factors affecting the MET. Regression models to predict the MET under handle height and load conditions were established. The mean absolute deviations of these models were between 1.91 and 4.84 min. CONCLUSION: The MET models established may be used to estimate the MET which may be adopted in work/rest arrangement for demolition tasks using a handheld demolition hammer. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, muscular fatigue, hand tool operating, pushing

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213597

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 615-624, 2021

Authors: Bieńkowska, Katarzyna | Gos, Elżbieta | Kutyba, Justyna | Rajchel, Joanna | Skarżyński, Piotr Henryk | Raj-Koziak, Danuta

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Tinnitus is an auditory impression without any external auditory stimulus. It may cause negative symptoms (anxiety, insomnia, depression) significantly affecting work performance and job satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the job satisfaction in tinnitus sufferers. METHODS: Cross-sectional study were conducted and 51 individuals (23–70 years) were recruited. Participants completed two questionnaires: Tinnitus Handicap Inventory and Job Satisfaction Scale. RESULTS: People affected by tinnitus report higher job satisfaction than healthy people. Job satisfaction was significantly related to age: r  = 0.31; p  < 0.05 in all tinnitus patients. There was a correlation between job satisfaction and tinnitus …severity but only in people with normal hearing (–0.69; p  < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The results show that job satisfaction is affected by the level of tinnitus annoyance (from both its emotional and functional aspects), but only in people with normal hearing. In future research it is recommended that additional factors be investigated, both work and non-work related, to thoroughly explore the impact of tinnitus on job satisfaction. Show more

Keywords: Hearing loss, work satisfaction, mental health, psychological functioning

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213598

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 625-632, 2021

Authors: Hajaghazadeh, Mohammad | Taghizadeh, Mohsen | Khalkhali, Hamidreza | Mohebbi, Iraj

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Hand anthropometry is useful for designing manual systems such as hand tools, controls, and gloves. There are limited published data on the hand dimensions of Iranian male and female adults. OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to measure the hand anthropometric dimensions in Iranian adults to compare data between two genders and also with the corresponding data from other nationalities. METHODS: A total of 34 dimensions of the right hand were measured in 217 male and 128 female adults using a digital caliper and tape. The mean, standard deviation, and the main percentiles are summarized in …a table and the mean of each dimension is compared by independent t -tests between genders. Hand dimensions are compared between Iranian and other nationalities such as North Colombian, Korean, Turkish, Nigerian, Bangladeshi, Jordanian, and Vietnamese using the published data. RESULTS: Females had significantly smaller hand dimensions than males in all dimensions ranged from 4.21%to 18.16%, with the largest differences in hand breadths. Compared with other nationalities, the Iranian male and female adults had wider (greater breadth and circumferences) hands with shorter fingers. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed significant differences of hand anthropometry between Iranian and other nationalities which should be included in the design and selection of hand tools for Iranian population. Show more

Keywords: Anthropometric measurement, hand, female, male

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213599

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 633-644, 2021

Authors: Zlatar, Tomi | Junior, Béda Barkokébas | Bezerra, Laura Martins | Araujo Brito, Margarida Maria | Costa, José Torres | Vaz, Mário | dos Santos Baptista, João

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Environmental temperatures in the fresh food industry vary from 0°C to 10°C, and go below -20°C for the frozen food industry, representing risk for the health and safety of workers involved. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this work was to evaluate the cold thermal stress risks for workers working in a frozen food industry. METHODS: A total of 27 acclimatized workers (13 male and 14 female) participated in a study which was conducted during 11 working days. The thermal sensation questionnaire and the cold work health questionnaire (CWHQ) were applied to all participants. Additionally, 4 workers …were chosen to be fully monitored with a thermometer telemetry capsule for measuring the intra-abdominal temperature and 8 skin temperature sensors. RESULTS: The lowest recorded hand temperature was 14.09°C, lowest forehead 18.55°C, mean skin temperature had variations of 1.10 to 3.20°C along the working period. Highest and most frequent fluctuations were found in the hand and forehead skin temperatures, small changes were found in mean skin temperature. CONCLUSIONS: Answers to the CWHQ increase concern on clinical forms of “a frigore”, and in two cases the mean body temperature decreased below 35.0°C, which is defined in the current literature as a mild form of hypothermia. Show more

Keywords: Cold exposure, thermoregulation, core temperature, thermal sensation, cold work health questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213600

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 645-655, 2021

Authors: Hoque, Mojahidul | Halder, Pobitra | Rahman, Sumon | Ahmed, Tazim | Szecsi, Tamas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Bangladesh, workers typically spend at least eight hours a day at garment factories in sitting and/or standing position. Prolonged sitting on ergonomically unfit furniture causes back, neck, and shoulder pain, which reduces the working efficiency and leading to low productivity. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to design ergonomically correct furniture for Bangladeshi garment workers considering multivariate analysis on the anthropometric data. METHODS: Twelve anthropometric measures and five furniture dimensions were measured. The sample comprised of 600 volunteer workers from different garment industry. The furniture dimensions were compared with the relevant anthropometric characteristics …and found a high level of mismatch (e.g. seat height (male 18%, female 94.25%), seat depth (male 96%, female 63.50%), seat width (male 9.50%, female 36.25%), sewing table height (male 56.50%, female 50%), and desk height for inspection, cutting and ironing table (male 100%, female 100%). RESULTS: New design specifications were proposed of the worker which improved the match percentage. The multivariate anthropometric analysis generated 8 cases and for each case the ranges of anthropometric measurements have been identified. CONCLUSION: The results will help to design robust ergonomic garments furniture. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, garments furniture, anthropometry, mismatch, bangladeshi workers, multivariate anthropometric analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213601

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 657-671, 2021

Article Type: Retraction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-219001

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 2, pp. 673-674, 2021