Work - Volume 71, issue 3

Authors: Lesch, Elmien | Grötzinger, Elsabe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Offshore working fathers’ extended absence from families influences families’ well-being, and fathers’ own psychological well-being and job satisfaction. Moreover, it impacts on job safety and performance. The paternal experiences and challenges of offshore working men, however, remains relatively unexplored with most research conducted with men from western or northern hemisphere contexts. OBJECTIVE: To explore the father ideas, experiences, practices, and challenges of Namibian and South African men of colour who work offshore the African coast; and if and how these are informed by traditional and “new” fatherhood ideas. METHODS: We used a qualitative method that …involved interviewing 15 fathers about their experiences and challenges. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the resulting data. RESULTS: Fathers viewed themselves as part-time fathers; They identified with contemporary notions of affectionate fathers who desire close connections with children but found it challenging to form and maintain close relationships with older children; They valued the fulfilment of traditional father roles of disciplinarian, provider and protector; and, They resorted to authoritarian practices when confronted with problematic child behaviour. Traditional gender notions seemed to underpin many of their father ideas, practices, and challenges. CONCLUSION: Both new and traditional father and gender ideas informed fathers’ experiences and challenges. Fathers need awareness about their taken-for-granted gender and father role assumptions, as well as knowledge and skills to enable close relationships with their children across children’s developmental stages. Show more

Keywords: Fathers working away from home, offshore paternal involvement, fathers of colour, African continent

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205124

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 585-599, 2022

Authors: Winkler, Eva

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In many European countries, entrepreneurs have to consider psychosocial factors in the workplace risk assessment. Little is known about psychosocial working conditions in micro- and small companies. Even less is known about the entrepreneur in these settings. OBJECTIVE: The present study was conducted to develop and examine the job demands and resources of small business owners and managers, who serve as important designers of their businesses’ working characteristics. METHODS: N = 29 semi-structured interviews with a unique sample of owners and managers of the transportation sector were analysed via qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: The data …suggest the presence of specific demands (time-, management-, and organisational demands) and resources (support and feedback). In particular, the variability and load of the demands indicate that the existing theoretical framework for employees is inadequate for evaluating the working characteristics of micro- and small business managers. CONCLUSION: Occupational health activities in small companies should include the working situation of the entrepreneur/manager. Show more

Keywords: Psychosocial factors, micro- and small companies, entrepreneur, manager

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205167

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 601-613, 2022

Authors: d’Ettorre, Gabriele | Pellicani, Vincenza | Hasa, Ardi | Lo Cicero, Edoardo | Perrucci, Martina | Perez, Maria Camila | La Torre, Giuseppe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A growing body of literature has showed the need to minimize the impact of rotating shiftwork (RS) on health of shift-healthcare workers (HCWs). OBJECTIVE: The aims of the study were: 1) assessing the occupational risk associated with RS program in HCWs employed in 24 hours hospital wards 2) testing the feasibility of the questionnaire used. METHODS: The Rotating Shiftwork Questionnaire (RSQ) was implemented to assess the RS risk (RSR); the analysis was addressed to: 1) Sentinel events (SE) and 2) Risk factors (RF). The RSQ was administered to the specialist nursing coordinators in eighteen hospitals …in Italy with the aim to evaluate the RSR index among nurses in 24 hours hospital wards. RESULTS: Eighteen structures participated in the multicenter study, of which 12 (66.7%) were public. Concerning the Rotating Shiftwork Risk index, there are the 78.8% of observations in the intermediate zone, with RSR scores ranging from 14.1 and 16 and in the high score area (RSR > 26) in which there are 4 observations equal to the 21.2% of the total. The multivariate analysis showed that the only significant variable associated with RF score was the macro-area (for Northern regionsbeta = –0.651; p  = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: RSQ has been shown a feasible and applicable tool to analyze the RSR in healthcare sector through the detection of quantitative data involving indicators of the risk. The questionnaire allowed to identify improvement actions targeted at minimizing specific critical issues through strategic interventions focused on organizational environment. Show more

Keywords: Shift work, healthcare workers, risk assessment, questionnaire, sentinel events, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205169

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 615-624, 2022

Authors: Mercan, Murat A. | Barlin, Hande | Begen, Nazire

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Population aging, caused by an increase in life expectancy and decrease in fertility rates, has created changes and challenges in various spheres, including the labor market. Though health deteriorates with age, more and more older adults choose to stay in the labor force and work into late life. OBJECTIVE: Understanding the effects of various work conditions on the health of older workers is crucial for designing policies and interventions to ensure healthy late life and maintain a productive workforce. To contribute to this endeavor, this study investigates the relationship between long working hours (LWH) and mortality among …older populations. METHODS: The study uses the Cox proportional hazards regression model to investigate data from the Health and Retirement Survey (HRS) between the years 1992–2016, a longitudinal nationally representative dataset from the United States. RESULTS: The results indicate that working 50 hours or more per week is not associated with an increased risk of mortality, for the full sample (1.45 [95% CI: 0.86, 2.45]), for both genders (females 0.51 [95% CI: 0.06, 4.28], males 1.45 [95% CI: 0.81, 2.61]), and for immigrants (female immigrants 0.55 [95% CI: 0.06, 4.75], male immigrants 1.44 [95% CI: 0.79, 2.62]). CONCLUSIONS: This analysis confirms and extends the findings of earlier studies by taking into consideration the potential impact of many demographic, socioeconomic, work-related and health-related factors. Show more

Keywords: Immigrants, population aging, work conditions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205175

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 625-639, 2022

Authors: Al Ali, Sara | Pihl-Thingvad, Jesper | Elklit, Ask

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Since psychiatric staff experience a high occurrence of workplace violence and subsequent Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it is important to assess the behavioral and cognitive risk factors of PTSD in this population. OBJECTIVE: The current study assesses the incidence of PTSD 12 months after the occurrence of WV. Furthermore, it examines possible prospective associations between coping strategies and cognitive appraisals, respectively, and PTSD. METHODS: This prospective cohort study was conducted with staff from 18 psychiatric wards in Denmark (n  = 183) who had reported an incidence of workplace violence. Most subjects were women (83.3%). …RESULTS: The incidence of PTSD was 9.8%. The main analysis showed a significant relationship between negative cognitive appraisals about the self and PTSD (OR = 2.87, p  < .05), and a coping strategy of self-blame and PTSD (OR = 2.21, p  < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Certain dysfunctional coping strategies and negative cognitive appraisals seems to predict posttraumatic stress in an occupational context. Information about these processes could be important for preventive strategies in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, psychiatry, PTSD, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205177

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 641-649, 2022

Authors: Khoshakhlagh, Amir Hossein | Majdabadi, Masoud Askari | Yazdanirad, Saeid

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders can cause increased absenteeism, costs, and injuries. OBJECTIVE: The present study was aimed to investigate the impact of ergonomic-educational interventions on the reduction of musculoskeletal symptoms among employees of oil and gas installations. METHODS: This interventional study was conducted on 1243 male workers of oil and gas installations in the south of Iran. The Nordic questionnaire and quick exposure check (QEC) method were used to evaluate the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders in the participants. Then, the educational interventions via training sessions, designed educational booklets and leaflets, and prepared educational film were performed. …Data were collected at the times of two months before and six months after the interventions. RESULTS: The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, at least in one of the body areas, was equal to 71.28%. The results showed that the prevalence of these symptoms significantly decreased in all body areas after the educational interventions (P <0.028). The highest reduction rate occurred in the regions of wrists and hands (52.77%), knees (47.17%), and waist (47.13%), respectively. Moreover, the results indicated that the mean value of the total score of quick exposure check (QEC) had a meaningful decrease from 0.92 to 0.54 after the educational interventions (P <0.0001). CONCLUSION: The planned educational interventions efficiently reduced the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and the ergonomic risk levels estimated by QEC in the research population. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal symptoms, Nordic questionnaire, QEC method, ergonomics, educational intervention, oil and gas industries

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205231

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 651-660, 2022

Authors: Lüders, Débora | Lopes, Flávia Conceição | Gonçalves, Cláudia Giglio de Oliveira | de Lacerda, Adriana Bender Moreira | José, Maria Renata | Marques, Jair Mendes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Hearing problems can have adverse effects on an individual’s job performance, as well as on unemployment or underemployment and increased risk of stress-related sick leave. OBJECTIVE: To investigate hearing impairment among workers and satisfaction with the use of hearing aids. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with workers who are hearing aid users. Subjects underwent pure tone audiometry and answered the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults and the Satisfaction with Amplification in Daily Life questionnaires . RESULTS: Participants were 36 workers between 36 and 75 years old, with an average age …of 53.47 years, 52.7% male and 47.3% female. There was a mild to moderate hearing handicap perception, with worse results for women in the emotional domain. As hearing loss increased, workers’ frustration increased when talking to coworkers. Everyone was satisfied with the use of their hearing aids. Satisfaction increased with increasing age and decreased with increasing hearing loss. The greater the frustration when talking to co-workers, the lower the overall satisfaction with hearing aid use; the lower the satisfaction with the competence of the professional who assisted in adapting the hearing aid; the lower the satisfaction in environments with background noise and overall worse personal image. The worse the attitudes and emotional responses of workers regarding their hearing impairment, the lower the overall satisfaction with the hearing aid. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the use of hearing aids, workers perceive having a hearing impairment, especially women. As hearing loss and frustration in talking with co-workers increased, satisfaction decreased. Show more

Keywords: Audiology, occupational health, surveys and questionnaires, hearing loss

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205263

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 661-669, 2022

Authors: Khorsandi, Mahboobeh | Dehghan, Somayeh Farhang | Pirposhteh, Elham Akhlaghi | Abbasinia, Marzieh | Afshari, Maryam | Ghanadzadeh, Mohammadjavad | Asghari, Mehdi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Improving the level of knowledge, attitude and practices of workers exposed to heat stress using a suitable tool can be a cheap and effective method. This requires the consideration of personal, environmental and social factors, which, the PRECEDE model is highly applicable for. Thus, the aim of the present study is the development of a tool assessment for measuring the knowledge, attitude and practices of workers in outdoor occupations regarding heat stress exposure using the PRECEDE model. METHODS: In the present study, a tool was designed and constructed using the PRECEDE model by analyzing the …relevant literature and expert opinion. The face validity of the tool was determined based on the opinion of ten experts with experience in the field of occupational weather conditions. The content validity of the tool was determined using the Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and the Content Validity Index (CVI). Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient was used to determine the reliability of the tool’s internal consistency. SPSS version 23 was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A PRECEDE based questionnaire was designed with a total of 55 questions consisting of predisposing factors (28 questions for knowledge and 14 questions for attitude), enabling factors (5 questions), reinforcing factors (3 questions) and preventive behaviors (5 questions). The Content Validity Index (CVI) of all questions was above 0.79. The Content Validity Ratio (CVR) of all questions was above 0.62 (Lawshe method). The Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of all PRECEDE domains were above the 0.7 acceptable value. Based on the results obtained, all 55 questions were approved and thus the content validity and reliability of this tool was deemed acceptable. CONCLUSION: Considering the reliability and validity of this tool, its application is recommended in all health and safety inspections within various industries for measuring the heat stress knowledge, attitude and practices of workers engaged in outdoor occupations and also for presenting suitable solutions or preventive measures. Show more

Keywords: Questionnaire, PRECEDE, knowledge, attitude, practice, heat stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205297

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 671-680, 2022

Authors: Paltrinieri, Sara | Vicentini, Massimo | Mancuso, Pamela | Mazzini, Elisa | Fugazzaro, Stefania | Rossi, Paolo Giorgi | Costi, Stefania

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Return to work (RTW) enhances the general well-being and social participation of cancer survivors (CSs). OBJECTIVE: To describe the predictive value of work-related factors on the RTW process of CSs. The work accommodations, the perceived workload, and the barriers and facilitations of RTW are also reported. METHODS: This population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in the Province of Reggio Emilia from July 2016 to July 2017. CSs who were 20–59 years old, first diagnosed with cancer, and employed at diagnosis were recruited. RESULTS: The majority of CSs (140/266, 53%) returned …to work without difficulties, 42% reported difficulties, and 5% did not RTW. CSs who were shift workers (sex and age-adjusted Relative Risk [adj-RR] 1.30; 95% CI 0.94 –1.78) and who worked at night (adj-RR 1.36 95% CI 0.99 –1.86), in the evening (adj-RR 1.23; 95% CI 0.95 –1.57) and on Sundays (adj-RR 1.15; 95% CI 0.81 –1.63) perceived more difficulties. Physically demanding work and a long commute seemed to negatively impact RTW. Accommodations in work tasks (37%) or schedule (26%) were implemented. Workload was not acceptable for 18% of CSs. The main barriers concerned energy and drive functions, whereas remunerative employment was the foremost facilitation. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare professionals should address work-related factors that might influence RTW with personalized interventions of vocational rehabilitation. Show more

Keywords: Rehabilitation, epidemiology, international classification of functioning disability and health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210008

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 681-691, 2022

Authors: Emetumah, Faisal C. | Okoye, Chinedu O.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Concerns have been raised about compliance with environmental and safety regulations during mining activities. OBJECTIVE: The study assessed miners’ experiences and perceptions of environmental and safety regulations, in addition to comparing their experiences and regulatory perceptions. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey design was adopted for data collection from field miners in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. RESULTS: Findings show that miners still experience environmental pollution and serious injuries during mining activities, notwithstanding regulatory visits. Miners’ perceptions of environmental regulatory requirements and their perceptions of safety regulatory requirements had more non-significant correlations, while miners’ environmental and safety …experiences had significant relationships with their perceptions of environmental and safety regulatory requirements. Nonetheless, environmental and safety regulations were perceived in different ways by miners based on important regulatory requirements. CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrates the importance of using a practical approach in managing environmental and safety issues during mining activities in a developing country like Nigeria. Show more

Keywords: Miners’ experiences, regulatory perceptions, Ebonyi, environmental perceptions, safety perceptions

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210265

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 693-708, 2022

Authors: Hayati, Abdollah | Marzban, Afshin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Many agricultural activities excessively need human power and are associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Leafy vegetable cultivation (LVC) is one of these. OBJECTIVE: The postural workload, body discomfort, and explainable linkage between these among Iranian wintry LVC workers were investigated. METHODS: Postures and body discomfort were evaluated using Ovako working posture analyzing system (OWAS) and a body map, respectively. The explainable body discomforts by working postures for each body region were descriptively discussed using some of the literature. RESULTS: Considering the maximum MSD risk value of 400%, irrigation and manual harvesting had the …highest MSD risks with index risks of 313% and 305% respectively. Low back discomfort was the most common body discomfort in LVC which was reported for the operations of moldboard plowing, disking, manure application, chemical broadcasting, spraying, and manual harvesting. LVC operations seemed to rely heavily on the use of low back and shoulders. Bent and/or twist postures were the most common postures for the back. CONCLUSIONS: Almost all the body discomforts were explained by awkward postures shown by postural workload analysis. Therefore, the working posture analysis results may be reliable and utilized in future decisions around ergonomic interventions. Future studies may be conducted to investigate the simple and inexpensive ergonomic interventions to mitigate MSD risks. Show more

Keywords: Agricultural mechanization, awkward posture, body discomfort, musculoskeletal disorder (MSD), occupational safety and health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210312

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 709-717, 2022

Authors: Lima, Killian S. | Meira Castro, Ana C. | Torres Costa, J. | Baptista, J. Santos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite constant technological evolution, the forestry sector is still characterised as one with the highest risk of occupational accidents. There is no doubt that accidents penalise workers considerably, as well as the companies, insurers, and, consequently, the society, to which many of the costs are externalised, namely in cases where the worker is incapacitated and unable to work. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this work is to analyse data on occupational accidents in forestry operations in Brazil between 2007 and 2018 in both native and planted forests. METHODS: Data were made available by the Brazilian Statistical …Directory of Accidents at Work. RESULTS: The results show that, although most accidents occurred in planted forests, mortality was higher in native forests. It was also found that, overall, the rate of serious accidents resulting in an incapacity to work and, consequently, sick leave is considerably high. CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight that integrating an occupational safety system into a forest management system is crucial for reducing work-related accidents in both native and planted forests. However, the success of this measure will only be effective if it is accompanied by a review of both the Brazilian labour policy and the Brazilian occupational safety management policy, to ensure compliance with legislation, mainly on the part of outsourced companies. Show more

Keywords: Occupational accident, incidence rate, temporary incapacity, mortality rate, native forest, planted forest

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210543

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 719-728, 2022

Authors: Intolo, Pattariya | Sitthikornpaiboon, Ratrudee | Chararivivot, Vararat

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged use of the smartphone causes neck and shoulder pain. However, no study has yet evaluated the effects of sitting upright, combined with frequent breaks, eye rest and self-stretching on pain and EMG during smartphone use. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the study was to compare pain and muscle activity between the control group (rest only) and the intervention group (rest combined with correct posture, eye rest and self-stretching) in smartphone use for 41.30 minutes. METHOD: Forty-four healthy females aged 18–25 years old were recruited and randomly divided into two groups. The body pain chart and …Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were used to evaluate pain. Electromyography (EMG) was used to measure muscle activity of Cervical Erector Spinae (CES) and Upper Trapezius (UT) muscles. RESULTS: The results showed that overall pain and neck pain in the control group increased significantly after smartphone use for 20 min and continually increased to 41.30 minutes (p  < 0.05). Overall pain and neck pain in the intervention group was significantly lesser than control group after smartphone use for 41.30 minutes (p  < 0.05). In the control group, EMG of CES at 41.30 minute was significantly higher than that of at 0 min (p  < 0.05). There was no significant difference in EMG of UT between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Conclusion smartphone user in the interventional group reported less pain when compared to control group after Smartphone use for 41.30 minutes. Therefore, the user aged 18–25 years should have a rest combined with correct posture, eye rest and self-stretching to prevent neck pain during prolonged smartphone use. Show more

Keywords: Mobile phone, sitting straight, spinal alignment, discomfort, muscle activity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210825

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 729-738, 2022

Authors: Barbosa, Caroline da Silva | das Merces, Magno Conceição | Costa Santana, Amália Ivine | de Souza e Silva, Douglas | Pimentel, Rodrigo Fernandes Weyll | Coelho, Julita Maria Freitas | e Almeida, Alex Almeida | Damasceno, Kairo Silvestre Meneses | Rossi, Thais Regis Aranha | D’Oliveira Júnior, Argemiro

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cross-sectional studies point out important evidence between anxiety and dyslipdemic disorders in health workers. OBJECTIVE: Our main objective was to estimate the association between anxiety and dyslipidemia in Primary Health Care (PHC) nursing professionals in Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: A confirmatory cross-sectional study involving 376 PHC nursing professionals. Data collection occurred through the application of a questionnaire containing sociodemographic, labor and lifestyle issues, and the Beck Inventory for anxiety; to evaluate the lipid profile, the HDL-c, LDL-c, and triglycerides markers were evaluated. Descriptive, bivariate analysis and Logistic Regression were performed. RESULTS: …The estimated prevalence of moderate/severe anxiety corresponded to 26.1% and dyslipidemia was 54.8%, with a statistically significant association between both of variables stratified by physical activity (PR = 2.69; 95% CI = 1.87–3.85) and (PR = 1.87; 95% CI = 1.53–2.28). CONCLUSIONS: There is a positive association between anxiety and dyslipidemia in Primary Health Care nursing professionals. Show more

Keywords: Anxiety, dyslipidemia, primary health care, epidemiology, mental health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205095

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 739-748, 2022

Authors: Rossi, Alessio | Calogiuri, Giovanna | Maffi, Sergio | Pedreschi, Dino | Clifton, David A. | Morelli, Davide

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: During Finnmarksløpet (FL, one of the longest distance sleddog races in the world), veterinarians are exposed to extreme environmental conditions and tight working schedules, with little and fragmented sleep. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this case study was to examine cardiovascular parameters and sleep-wake patterns among veterinarians working within FL, during and after (for a month) the end of the race. METHODS: Six female veterinarians volunteered for the study. The participants wore a wrist device for a total of eight weeks in order to passively and semi-continuously record physiological responses throughout the day (i.e., heart rate, …heart rate variability, number of steps, and sleep quality). Moreover, perceived sleep quality was assessed by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) at three time-points. RESULTS: During and for one month after completion of the FL, most veterinarians presented an alteration of cardiovascular parameters and sleep quality. The heart rate circadian rhythm returned to pre-race values within about two weeks. CONCLUSIONS: The long-lasting alteration of the veterinarians’ cardiovascular parameters and sleep-wake patterns might have negative consequences for their health in the long-term, especially if similar experiences are repeated more times though the course of a year or season. More research is needed in order to understand the health risks, as well as how to prevent them, among veterinarians in long-distance sleddog races or other similar events. Show more

Keywords: Wearable electronic devices, sleep, circadian rhythm, heart rate

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210331

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 749-760, 2022

Authors: Calvo, Daniel de Souza Costa | Ferreira, João Alberto | Cunha, Daisy Moreira | Mendes, Davidson Passos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The topic right to refuse to do hazardous work/to be exposed to serious and imminent risks is herein presented as the central and fundamental axis on issues associated with workers’ health and safety. OBJECTIVE: Investigating how the topic right to refuse to do hazardous work/be exposed to serious and imminent risks may be used as condition and strategy to manage work in the Surgical Center of a hospital. METHODS: The research methodology focused on establishing dialogue among Activity-centered Ergonomics (Ergonomic Workplace Analysis –EWA), Ergology, Action-Research and Ethnography. Samples were collected from March to …September 2018 and comprised 120 hours of data, in total. The Surgical Center of the investigated hospital was the place of choice to conduct the study. Assistive Nurses accounting for managing and operating the entire sector were the analyzed population. RESULTS: The concept of refusal was expanded and (re)signified beyond the workers’ health and safety perspective, since it was also linked to variables such as environment, quality of products/processes and social accountability. CONCLUSIONS: Refusal does not only mean not doing what is requested, but performing the task requested by other means and paths that are always guided by one’s commitment to achieve the overall proposed productive outcomes. The right to refuse is more than a management tool, it is a broad and effective work organization strategy. Show more

Keywords: Right to refuse, work activity, hospital care, ergonomics, ergology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210073

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 761-770, 2022

Authors: Ghorbani-Shahna, Farshid | Feiz-Arefi, Maryam

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Various chemical substances and carcinogens have been presented in medical sciences universities’ educational and research laboratories. For this purpose a suitable ventilation system had to be implemented to ensure the correct operation of the hoods. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of laboratory chemical fume hoods of the University of Medical Sciences using a novel quantitative method. METHODS: In this study, 43 chemical fume hoods were investigated in the laboratories of the University of Medical Sciences. The technical specifications of the hoods and their compliance with the standard have been investigated. The hoods face velocity was …measured using a thermal anemometer. Quantitative evaluation was performed using the new method of CO2 tracer gas and the results were analyzed using SPSS software version 19. FINDINGS: The hoods presented both favorable and unfavorable results in terms of technical specifications and location. The results showed 50.2% of the hoods have visible leakage. Hood face velocity was not suitable for any of the hoods in the case fully open.when half open only 16.3% of the hoods and in the case of 25% open face, 34.9% of the hoods had a good velocity. Most hoods have CO2 leakage even at small amounts. CONCLUSIONS: the unsuitable performance of the hoods is mainly due to the unsuitability of the fans, furthermore investigation and correction of technical problems are required. The new quantitative method is a suitable method for routine evaluating chemical fume hoods and can replace the SF6 gas tracer method. Show more

Keywords: Chemical fume hood, qualitative evaluation, laboratory, CO2

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205185

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 771-778, 2022

Authors: Michael, Samer | Mintz, Yoav | Brodie, Ronit | Assalia, Ahmad

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has many advantages for patients, however, it places surgeons at risk for Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). Recently, the importance of prevention of such injuries and improvement of the ergonomics of the operating room is increasing. OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence of WMSD among minimally invasive surgeons in Israel, discuss the contributing factors and the overall awareness for ergonomic training. In addition, a review of the literature on the topic was conducted. METHODS: An online questionnaire was sent to the members of the Israeli Society of Endoscopic Surgery. The results were analyzed …and summarized. For literature review, PubMed was used to search for English-language publications related to the issue. RESULTS: Of 83 respondents, the majority (77%) have considerable experience in MIS (more than 10 years). The prevalence of WMSD was 12% before beginning the practice of laparoscopy compared to 78% after 15–20 years of practice. Injury sites included back pain, neck and upper extremity (shoulder pain, tennis elbow and carpal tunnel syndrome) in 41%, 25% and 34% respectively. More than two thirds of responders unaware of possible ergonomic solutions and didn’t consider adopting any appropriate preventive measures. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of WMSD among MIS surgeons is high and underestimated. There is a desperate need to prevent such morbidity among surgeons by increasing awareness and providing the means to improve their work environment. Surgeons should adhere to ergonomic recommendations for positioning of monitors, table height, posture, foot pedal placement and laparoscopic devices use. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, occupational health, laparoscopic

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205072

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 779-785, 2022

Authors: Langer, Danit | Melchior, Hanna | Mazor-Karsenty, Tal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Grip strength is frequently used in research and clinical work and is commonly compared to normative data in clinical settings. To enable accurate interpretation of grip strength values, normative reference values should be close to the demographic, occupational, cultural and geographic characteristics of the individual tested. OBJECTIVE: Investigate the effects of gender, age, work-group and hand dominance on grip strength for the Israeli population, and to compare the grip strength to two normative studies from the United States. METHODS: A cross sectional study. The grip strength of 637 healthy adults was measured using a Jamar …dynamometer. The effects for age, gender, hand dominance, and work strain were investigated. Israeli sample results were compared to US norms. RESULTS: Within the Israeli sample, a significant age effect was found for both men and women. This effect was most apparent among the 70+ age groups, in which grip strength was weaker than all the other groups. Males were significantly stronger than females, in both hands, and the dominant hand was significantly stronger, regardless of gender. Results also demonstrated a medium to large effect for type of work on grip strength portraying high manual strain workers to have stronger grip strength. Overall, the grip strength in the Israeli sample was weaker than both US samples. CONCLUSION: Clinicians should be cautious when comparing grip strength to published norms from a different culture/geographical region. The amount of manual strain invested in various occupational roles should be considered in the assessment and intervention process. Show more

Keywords: Hand strength, reference values, work, healthy volunteers, occupational therapy, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205330

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 787-794, 2022

Authors: Supples, Michael W. | Brichler, Kevin P. | Glober, Nancy K. | Lardaro, Thomas A. | O’Donnell, Daniel P.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals frequently experience job-related injuries, most commonly overexertion or movement injuries. Data on injury reduction in EMS professionals is limited. The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a movement analysis tool suggested to predict musculoskeletal injury, but it has not previously been evaluated for EMS professionals. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the FMS to predict musculoskeletal injury among EMS professionals. METHODS: In October 2014, EMS professionals employed in an urban third-service EMS agency volunteered to participate in FMS administered by certified screeners. Age, sex, height and weight were recorded. After screening, …participants were instructed on exercises to correct movement deficiencies. We reviewed recorded injuries from 2013 to 2016. We performed descriptive statistics. With logistic regression modeling, we described factors that predicted musculoskeletal injury. We generated a receiver operating curve (ROC) for FMS prediction of musculoskeletal injury. RESULTS: 147 of 240 full-time employees participated in the FMS. Participants’ mean age was 33.7 years (SD = 9.6) and the majority (65%) were male. The median initial FMS score was 14 (IQR 11–16). Area under the ROC curve was 0.603 (p  = 0.213) for FMS ability to predict any musculoskeletal injury within two years. Female sex was associated higher odds of injury (OR 3.98, 95% CI 1.61–9.80). Increasing age, body mass index (BMI) category, and FMS score≤14 did not predict musculoskeletal injury. CONCLUSION: The FMS did not predict musculoskeletal injury among EMS professionals. Show more

Keywords: Paramedic, musculoskeletal disease, physical activity, worker compensation, functional fitness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205328

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 795-802, 2022

Authors: Al-Qaisi, Saif | Saba, Alif | Alameddine, Ibrahim

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A prerequisite for interpreting electromyography (EMG) data is to normalize them to a maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), expressing them as percentage of the MVC. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to compare different recommended MVC exercises for the latissimus dorsi and identify the exercise that elicits the highest EMG amplitude. METHODS: Fifteen male participants were recruited. Five recommended MVC exercises were investigated, including chest-supported shoulder extension, prone shoulder extension, lat-pull down, abducted shoulder flexion, and internal shoulder rotation. RESULTS: Chest-supported shoulder extension reported the highest mean EMG, which was not significantly different …from the mean EMG of prone shoulder extension. Both of these exercises led to significantly greater EMG means than the other exercises. Sixty percent of the participants achieved their highest EMG amplitude with chest-supported shoulder extension and 40% with prone shoulder extension. None of the other exercises elicited the highest EMG amplitude in any of the participants. CONCLUSIONS: Both chest-supported shoulder extension and prone shoulder extension proved to be effective MVC exercises, with the former showing more consistency in eliciting the highest EMG amplitude. If the true MVC is desired, the authors recommend performing both exercises and then using the overall highest EMG amplitude for normalization purposes. Show more

Keywords: Muscle activation, normalization, musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomics, biomechanics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213629

Citation: Work, vol. 71, no. 3, pp. 803-808, 2022