Work - Volume 70, issue 4

Authors: Roman, Gretchen | Peterson, Daniel S. | Ofori, Edward | Vidt, Meghan E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Individuals fluent in sign language (signers) born to non-signing, non-deaf parents (non-natives) may have a greater injury risk than signers born to signing, deaf parents (natives). A comprehensive analysis of movement while signing in natives and non-natives has not been completed and could provide insight into the greater injury prevalence of non-natives. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine differences in upper extremity biomechanics between non-natives and natives. METHODS: Strength, ‘micro’ rests, muscle activation, ballistic signing, joint angle, and work envelope were captured across groups. RESULTS: Non-natives …had fewer rests (p  = 0.002) and greater activation (p  = 0.008) in non-dominant upper trapezius. For ballistic signing, natives had greater anterior-posterior jerk (p  = 0.033) and for joint angle, natives demonstrated greater wrist flexion-extension range of motion (p  = 0.040). Natives also demonstrated greater maximum medial-lateral (p  = 0.015), and greater minimum medial-lateral (p  = 0.019) and superior-inferior (p  = 0.027) positions. CONCLUSIONS: We observed that natives presented with more rests and less activation, but greater ballistic tendencies, joint angle, and envelope compared to non-natives. Additional work should explore potential links between these outcomes and injury risk in signers. Show more

Keywords: Sign language, joint angle, ballistic signing, ‘micro’ rests, muscle activation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213622

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1111-1119, 2021

Authors: Petersen, K.S. | Madsen, L.S. | Nielsen, C.V. | Labriola, M. | Stapelfeldt, C.M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Validation studies have not been able to confirm the stage-specific understanding as operationalised in the readiness for return to work (RRTW) questionnaire. OBJECTIVE: To explore retrospectively how working female cancer survivors experienced the process of becoming ready to RTW during and beyond participation in an occupational rehabilitation intervention and thereby expand the understanding of the RRTW construct. METHODS: A qualitative research design was employed. Thirteen female cancer survivors were included for semi-structured interviews one to two years after they had completed active treatment and returned to work. The RRTW construct guided data …generation and analysis. Content analysis was performed in four analytical steps that combined a concept-driven and a data-driven analytic strategy. RESULTS: Three themes were identified; “To have and then lose the safety net”, “Realise a changed life situation”, “Strive to balance work and everyday life”. In a time span of approximately one to two years (from receiving treatment, being enrolled in an intervention and to gradually returning to work); the identified themes were interdependent of each other as one theme gradually evolved to the next theme in the process of engaging in sustained work participation. CONCLUSIONS: The present study points towards continuous development of the RRTW construct and whether the addition of a preparedness dimension would improve validity. Show more

Keywords: Survivorship, work-life-balance, rehabilitation, vocational, qualitative

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213623

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1121-1130, 2021

Authors: Ericsson, Ulf | Pettersson, Pär | Rydstedt, Leif W. | Ekelund, Elin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Using 24-hour narratives as a starting-point, the present study examines conditions for recovery from work. The third shift concept forms the explorative starting point for highlighting the interplay between work, family responsibilities, leisure time and recovery. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to explore how the third shift affects possibilities for recovery. METHOD: The material was gathered by group interviews and diaries. Thirty employees participated in the study. Ten participants where women between 30 and 45 years of age with children living at home. RESULTS: Being solely …responsible for the third shift reduced the chances of recovery during work-free time. The material showed that women aged 30–45 years had to a greater extent than others the main responsibility in a complex third shift. CONCLUSION: As a precondition for external recovery, this study show how theoretically beneficial the breakdown of the second shift and development of the third shift is for understanding different preconditions and the way they affect the possibility of recovery. Show more

Keywords: Equality, fatigue, stress, women’s health, work-life balance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213624

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1131-1140, 2021

Authors: Hultqvist, Jenny | Bjerkeli, Pernilla | Hensing, Gunnel | Holmgren, Kristina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related stress (WRS) presents a risk for sick leave. However, effective methods to identify people at risk for sick leave due to WRS at an early stage are lacking in primary health care. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether a systematic early identification of WRS can prevent sick leave over 24 months after the intervention. METHODS: Study participants (n  = 132 intervention; n  = 139 control) were employed, non-sick-listed persons seeking care at primary health care centres. The intervention included early identification of WRS by a validated instrument, general practitioner (GP) awareness supported by a brief training session, patients’ …self-reflection by instrument completion, GP giving the patient feedback at consultation and GP identifying preventive measures. The control group received treatment as usual. Outcome data were retrieved from the Swedish Social Insurance Agency. RESULTS: The intervention group had less registered median sick leave days (n  = 56) than the control group (n  = 65) but the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The brief intervention was not proven effective in preventing sick leave in the following 24 months compared to treatment as usual. Further research on how to identify, advice and treat those at high risk for sick leave in primary health care is needed. Show more

Keywords: Preventive intervention, Work stress questionnaire (WSQ), common mental disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, sick leave days

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205029

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1141-1150, 2021

Authors: Buckley, Katie L. | O’Halloran, Paul D. | Oates, Jennifer M. | Ruddock-Hudson, Mandy L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Coaches critically rely on voice for occupational functioning, which has associated risks to vocal health. However, vocal occupational health and safety (OHS) and vocal ergonomics are not typically considered for, by, or with coaches. OBJECTIVE: This study piloted a participatory approach to vocal ergonomics, aiming to collaboratively (i) understand coaches’ vocally reliant occupational participation, and (ii) consider vocal ergonomic factors. METHODS: This research was undertaken at an international tournament for floorball (also known as ‘Innebandy’, ‘Salibandy’, or ‘Unihockey’). Three national coaches (n  = 3) and the lead researcher undertook cooperative action inquiry. This …piloted a participatory vocal ergonomics programme. Action inquiry methods included fieldnotes, interviews, observations, a workshop, ergonomics approaches, and a focus group. Multi-level analyses supported the findings, including categorical aggregation, direct interpretation, and reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Participants identified vocal ergonomic factors present at the tournament; including personal, activity, physical environmental, and organisational factors. Participants developed four vocal ergonomic approaches responsive to factors. These were: (1) player consultation, (2) ongoing feedback discussions, (3) movement and postural change, and (4) specific task adaptation. Approaches 1–2 directly supported coaches’ voices. Coaches posited limitations to other strategies, but made recommendations for future use. Coaches also reflected that this collaboration provided actionable voice insights and opportunities to address vocal ergonomics. They advocated for extended engagement with coaches, increased focus on vocal health, and inclusion of early career coaches in future programmes. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support engagement of coaches, and other vocally reliant workers, in addressing voice use and vocal health at work. Show more

Keywords: Voice use, vocal health, occupational voice users, voice ergonomics, participatory ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205040

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1151-1163, 2021

Authors: Formosa, Amanda | Dobronyi, Isabelle | Topolovec-Vranic, Jane

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has a higher prevalence in the homeless population. Caregivers to individuals who have TBIs may require better education surrounding screening, diagnosis and management of this disease to tailor interventions to their clients’ needs. OBJECTIVE: To assess the insight and educational needs of homeless care providers in recognizing and dealing with clients who had experienced a TBI. METHODS: A survey assessing the point of views of homeless care providers across Canada regarding their level of confidence in identifying and managing symptoms of TBI. RESULTS: Eight-eight completed …surveys were included. Overall, frontline workers expressed a moderate level of confidence in identifying and managing TBI, stating that educational initiatives in this context would be of high value to themselves and their clients. CONCLUSIONS: Frontline workers to homeless clients rate their educational needs on the identification and management of TBI to be high such that educational initiatives for shelter workers across Canada may be beneficial to increase their knowledge in identifying and managing the TBI-related symptoms. Improved education would not only benefit frontline workers but may also have a positive effect on health outcomes for their clients. Show more

Keywords: Homeless, traumatic brain injury, frontline workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205111

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1165-1175, 2021

Authors: Naeini, Bita B. | Tabatabai Ghomsheh, Farhad | Divani, Razieh | Danesh, Mojtaba K. | Garosi, Ehsan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Nowadays, although using laptops to perform many routine activities is inevitable, many wheelchair users are not able to efficiently use their laptops due to their movement limitations and inappropriate workstations. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to design and evaluate a novel ergonomic laptop desk for wheelchair users by considering their movement limitations. METHODS: In this experimental study, we ergonomically designed and assessed a novel laptop desk in two phases in a laboratory. In the first phase of the study, design specifications were identified by an expert panel; accordingly, a new …laptop desk was designed and prototyped for the wheelchair users. In the second phase, in order to evaluate the laptop desk, 14 wheelchair users were asked to complete a typing task within 20 minutes, both with and without using the laptop desk. Postural risk level, perceived discomfort, and task performance were evaluated using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) technique, Local Perceived Discomfort (LPD) questionnaire, and the number of letters typed and typing errors, respectively. RESULTS: The postures of the wrist, arm, and neck regions were corrected from RULA action level 3 to 2 when the designed laptop desk was used. In addition, the average perceived discomfort of the participants significantly decreased in the neck, shoulder, and wrist regions. Furthermore, typing accuracy was improved significantly when novel laptop desk was used. CONCLUSIONS: Accommodating wheelchair user’s workstation with the novel designed laptop desk could reduce musculoskeletal disorders risk factors and help wheelchair users to perform their work more efficiently. Show more

Keywords: Wheelchairs, laptop desk, ergonomic design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205123

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1177-1185, 2021

Authors: Alshiddi, Ibraheem F. | Habib, Syed Rashid | Sattar, Kamran | Alshahrani, Abdullah | Almufleh, Rya S. | Basuhail, Suhailah | Andejani, Abdulelah

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) among dentists in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The study also explored the causes of occupational stress among the participating dentists. MATERIALS & METHODS: The participants included a conveniently selected sample of dentists (N  = 126; Males = 65; Females = 61). The participants’ anthropometric measurements/blood sample analysis were carried out and they completed a self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis included demographics, gender/age wise comparison using SPSS (p  < 0.05). For the diagnosis of MS, updated criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program was applied. RESULTS: Participants …diagnosed with MS were 13 (10.3%), Males = 11(8.7%) and Females = 2(1.5%). Physical activity of 6 (15.8%) with MS was only 0–2 hours/week. 9 (14.5%) participants with MS declared positive family history for MS. The average systolic (117.55±11.33) and diastolic blood pressure (71.9±9.34) of the participants was found to be normal with no gender wise statistical difference. No gender wise statistical differences (p  > 0.05) were observed for cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL. However, significant difference (p  = 0.00) was found for the fasting glucose level (Males = 5.69±1.49; Females = 4.94±0.42). Overall mean scoring (3.00±1.11) for the stress showed that the participants fall into the average/moderate level of stress category (Males = 3.16±1.02; Females = 2.83±1.08). Almost two third (68.26%) of the participant’s responded that they were under some kind of stress. CONCLUSIONS: MS was found to be less frequent among the dentists working in the city of Riyadh. Overall, the dentists were under moderate level of occupational stress, with male dentists being more prone to work related stress. Show more

Keywords: Dentists, metabolic syndrome, occupational stress, occupational health, physical activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205134

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1187-1194, 2021

Authors: Dropkin, Jonathan | Roy, Asha | Szeinuk, Jaime | Moline, Jacqueline | Baker, Robert

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Among work-related conditions in the United States, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) account for about thirty-four percent of work absences. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play an essential role in the management of work-related MSDs. For conditions diagnosed as work-related, up to seventeen percent of cases are PCP managed; within these conditions, up to fifty-nine percent are diagnosed as musculoskeletal. Negative factors in treatment success confronting PCPs include time constraints and unfamiliarity with work-related MSDs. A multidimensional team approach to secondary prevention, where PCPs can leverage the expertise of allied health professionals, might provide a useful alternative to current PCP practices …for the treatment of work-related MSDs. OBJECTIVE: Provide the structure of and rationale for an “extended care team” within primary care for the management of work-related MSDs. METHODS: A systematic literature search, combining medical subject headings and keywords, were used to examine eight peer-reviewed literature databases. Gray literature, such as government documents, were also used. RESULTS: An extended care team would likely consist of at least nine stakeholders within primary care. Among these stakeholders, advanced practice orthopedic physical therapists can offer particularly focused guidance to PCPs on the evaluation and treatment of work-related MSDs. CONCLUSIONS: A multidimensional approach has the potential to accelerate access and improve quality of work-related outcomes, while maintaining patient safety. Show more

Keywords: Multidimensional, extended care teams

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205139

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1195-1217, 2021

Authors: Dain, Stephen John | Bridge, Catherine | Relf, Mark | Lukman, Aldyfra Luhulima | Manandhar, Sarita | Boon, Mei Ying

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Standards writers, national and international, have used different contrast calculations to set requirements in building elements for people with visual impairments. On the other hand, they have typically set a single requirement (30%) for specifying the minimum contrast. The systems are not linearly related and 30% means something rather different in each system. OBJECTIVE: To provide a comparison of the various scales in order to illustrate the differences caused by multiple scales with a single compliance value, recommend a single scale for universal adoption and, if a new measure is problematic for implementation, to recommend …the most perceptually uniform of the present methods. METHODS: We use the contrast between combinations of 205 paint colours to illustrate the relationships between the measures. We use an internationally accepted scale, with equal perceptual steps, as a “gold standard” to identify the most perceptually uniform measurement scale in the existing methods. RESULTS: We show that Michelson contrast is the most perceptually uniform of the existing measurement scales. We show the contrasts in the proposed method that equate to the various current requirements. CONCLUSIONS: We propose that CIE Metric Lightness could be used as the contrast measure. Alternatively, Michelson contrast is the most perceptually linear of the current measurement scales. Show more

Keywords: Accessibility standards, safe navigation, visibility assessment, visual detection, universal design, contrast measures, contrast equations

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205158

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1219-1227, 2021

Authors: Munir, Fehmidah | Yarker, Joanna | Duckworth, Jennifer | Chen, Yu-Ling | Brinkley, Andrew | Varela-Mato, Veronica | Lewis, Rachel | Clemes, Stacy

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is increasing focus on designing workspaces that promote less sitting, more movement and interaction to improve physical and mental health. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates a natural intervention of a new workplace with active design features and its relocation to a greener and open space. METHODS: An ecological model was used to understand how organisations implement change. Pre and post survey data from 221 matched cases of workers and accelerometery data (n  = 50) were analysed. RESULTS: Results show a decrease in occupational sitting (-20.65 mins/workday, p  = 0.001) and an …increase in workplace walking (+5.61 mins/workday, p  = 0.001) using survey data, and accelerometery data (occupational sitting time: –31.0 mins/workday, p  = 0.035, standing time: +22.0 mins/workday, p  = 0.022, stepping time: +11.0 mins/workday, p  = 0.001). Improvements in interaction, musculoskeletal pain and mental health were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Application of the ecological model shows that the organisation understands how to target the built environment and social/cultural environment but not how to target behaviour change at the individual level. Show more

Keywords: Building design, workplace, physical activity, social interactions, ecological model

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205180

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1229-1241, 2021

Authors: Paltrinieri, Sara | Ricchi, Elena | Mazzini, Elisa | Cervi, Elena | Sandri, Elisa | Fugazzaro, Stefania | Costi, Stefania

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Return to work (RTW) is a major goal to promote cancer survivors’ social participation. OBJECTIVE: This study describes the multidisciplinary social-healthcare pathway called UNAMANO, conceived to support RTW in this population. METHODS: UNAMANO was developed by the Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, in partnership with the local branch of the Italian Medical Association, nonprofit associations, vocational training institutions, social cooperatives, a labour union, and a chartered accounting firm. RESULTS: UNAMANO is directed towards employed individuals diagnosed with cancer living in the province of RE. It was developed through four …actions: A) training healthcare professionals on work-related occupational rehabilitation; B) dissemination among community and stakeholders; C) recruitment and training of volunteers; D) cancer survivor engagement and provision of a personalized comprehensive intervention. This consists in providing information and either occupational therapy to overcome barriers and facilitate RTW or social support through re-training and tailored job search strategies based on individual risk of job loss. CONCLUSIONS: UNAMANO is the first Italian multidisciplinary social-healthcare pathway supporting RTW of cancer survivors. Addressing a wide area of cancer survivors’ needs, it provides personalized intervention to resolve work-related issues. We propose this patient-centred RTW model to promote an easier transition from hospital to community. Show more

Keywords: Neoplasms, occupational therapy, comprehensive health care

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205249

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1243-1253, 2021

Authors: Hota, Smrutilipi | Mishra, J.N. | Mohanty, S.K. | Khadatkar, Abhijit | Chandel, A.K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Ragi (Eleusine Coracana ) is a major food crop for the tribal population of India. OBJECTIVE: This study emphasizes the need to consider ergonomics aspects in the design and development of a pedal operated ragi thresher (PORT) for tribal people, and assesses the drudgery as well as ergonomic evaluation of a developed thresher against the conventional practice. METHODS: Thirty subjects (male = 15 and female = 15) from the tribal region were evaluated ergonomically. The physiological responses of the subjects were studied and their performance was compared. RESULTS: The results revealed that the …working heart rate, oxygen consumption rate and overall discomfort rating were significantly higher in case of traditional threshing as compared to those in case of PORT. Postural analysis identified the traditional method as the most fatigue one as the person has to lift the hand above shoulder level repeatedly and has to sit in a squatting posture for long period. CONCLUSION: The drudgery and occupational hazards to public health involved in the traditional method of threshing was reduced by using the PORT. Furthermore, the traditional method involved continuous stressed actions across the entire body, whereas the PORT involved only the lower limbs. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, threshing, working heart rate, oxygen consumption rate, energy expenditure rate, occupational hazards, public health, traditional

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205252

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1255-1265, 2021

Authors: Xiaolong, Tao | Gull, Nida | Asghar, Muhammad | Jianmin, Zhang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite the increasing body of research on workplace incivility, the relationship between co-worker/supervisor incivilities and job-affective well-being have received relatively little consideration from the scholars. This study investigates the impact of polychronicity on nurses’ psychological well-being in the healthcare sector. OBJECTIVE: According to COR theory, this study’s main objective is to investigate the impact of two aspects of incivilities, co-worker, and supervisor incivilities, as the moderating effect on the relationship between polychronicity and job-affective psychological well-being. METHODS: The sample data was collected from 260 nurse’s staff who were working in hospitals. The proposed model hypothesis …was tested through SPSS-Amos-structural equation modeling. RESULTS: The result shows that polychronic nurses show high job engagement and job performance in a hospital environment. This study’s findings revealed that co-workers and supervisors’ higher incivility weakens the positive relationship between polychronicity and job-affective well-being. CONCLUSION: Today, retained the employees are a perilous issue in every organization, especially in hospital sectors, where nurses are working in stressful working environments, facing bullying, harassment, and uncivil behavior from patients’ side, co-workers, and supervisor. These types of behaviors are not only affecting employees’ well-being, commitment, and job performance but also their mental health and intent to leave. Similarly, the effect on organizational goals, shareholders’ value, and progress makes an effective mechanism to control the negative behaviors that would be an apparent advantage for administration and managers to efficiently attain organizational goals. Show more

Keywords: Polychronicity, co-worker incivility, supervisor incivility, job-related affective psychological well-being, healthcare staff

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205286

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1267-1277, 2021

Authors: Adnan, Samira | Tabassum, Sadia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The perceptions and trends of magnification use in dentistry need to be determined since magnification significantly enhances clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To assess perception and practices of Operative and Endodontic specialists currently working in Pakistan, regarding use of magnification. METHODS: A structured questionnaire administered for this analytical cross-sectional study recorded demographics, trends of magnification devices used in practice and their perceived advantages and disadvantages by the specialists with close-ended questions and three-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Out of 91 forms, 77 responses were received (response rate of 84%). Most participants had …1–4 years of practical experience, were employed at both faculty and clinical positions, were more interested in operative/restorative procedures and used TLL (through the lens loupes) at low magnification. Use of magnification devices was learnt mostly during post-graduate training and was used daily or weekly for complicated cases. Noteworthy perceptions included improved treatment quality and standard of care. However, they were also perceived as irritating, increasing treatment time, with adverse effect on eyesight with prolonged use. No statistically significant correlation was found between the variables recorded (p  > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Most specialists used magnification devices in some form and were abreast with their advantages. Proper training and continued dental education courses can help dispel any observed misapprehensions. Show more

Keywords: Magnification devices, dental operating microscope, loupes, perception, endodontist, operative specialist, dentistry

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210045

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1279-1287, 2021

Authors: Fallah, Hossein | Nazari, Jalil | Choobineh, Alireza | Morowatisharifabad, Mohammad Ali | Jafarabadi, Mohamad Asghari

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The main purpose of ergonomics is environment adaptation to humans, and the root cause of the barriers and problems of the older adults is the mismatch between the home environment and their limitations. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to identify and explain physical environment barriers and problems among older adults’ homes in Yazd, Iran. METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted as conventional content analysis. In total, 53 participants including 36 older adults and 17 caregivers were enrolled in the study. The participants were selected using convenience and purposive sampling methods, while the …data collection method was a semi-structured interview. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, and then analyzed using MAXQDA11 software. RESULTS: Following data analysis, 268 initial codes were extracted. They were classified into three major categories and 31 sub categories. The main categories are “barriers and problems associated with older adults’ sensory limitations,” “barriers and problems associated with older adults’ motor limitations,” and “barriers and problems associated with older adults’ cognitive limitations.” CONCLUSIONS: Although the data collected from the older adults and their caregivers are in many cases similar, caregivers can provide reasons for the barriers and problems as well as solutions better than the older adults. The data also indicate that most of the problems and barriers are related to motor limitations. Show more

Keywords: Qualitative study, older adults, barriers, home environment, ergonomic

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210765

Citation: Work, vol. 70, no. 4, pp. 1289-1303, 2021