Work - Volume 74, issue 4

Authors: Nuñez-Castillo, Saul | Martínez Alcántara, Susana | Zamora-Macorra, Mireya

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fatigue and sleep disturbances are among the most common disorders suffered by transport drivers. OBJECTIVE: To identify and analyze working conditions for Mexican federal transportation truck and bus drivers, and their connection with sleep disorders and fatigue. METHODS: A cross-sectional, quantitative study was performed with a convenience sample of 172 drivers (84 truck and 88 bus) by applying the Survey Evaluation and Monitoring of Workers Health (PROESSAT in Spanish) and the Yoshitake Fatigue questionnaire. RESULTS: Night work and performing hazardous work increased the prevalence of sleep disorders (PR = 3.9 and PR = 6.9, respectively). Poor lighting …and being paid per trip increased the prevalence of fatigue (PR = 2.8 and PR = 2.5, respectively). CONCLUSION: Several conditions were found to impact health, including long work shifts, strenuous physical effort, night work, little social support, being paid by distance, strict quality controls, and risk of crimes such as extortion, robbery, attacks, and kidnapping. Show more

Keywords: Working conditions, transport truck drivers, bus drivers, fatigue, sleep disorders.

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211298

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1491-1496, 2023

Authors: Hoshino, Aiko | Shirato, Aki | Kutsuna, Ichiro | Uemura, Jun-ichi | Chishima, Makoto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Japan, women’s participation in the workforce has been increasing. However, there are few studies about gender differences in stress factors in the workplace. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to clarify gender differences in psychosocial factors in the workplace related to severe stress. METHODS: In total, 930 male and 339 female employees working in a construction company in Japan participated in this study. We used individual responses to the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire (BJSQ) conducted by their company for the most recent year between 2016 and 2019. Data were categorized by gender, and we extracted the factors …contributing to severe stress using logistic regression. RESULTS: We identified 142 men and 32 women who had severe stress. Logistic regression analysis showed that six factors (“Qualitative job overload”, “Job control”, “Interpersonal conflict”, “Poor physical environment”, “Supervisor’s support”, and “Job satisfaction and life satisfaction”) were significantly associated with the presence of severe stress in men. In women, five factors (“Qualitative job overload”, “Job control”, “Interpersonal conflict”, “Suitable work”, and “Job satisfaction and life satisfaction”) showed a significant association with severe stress. CONCLUSION: Factors associated with severe stress were “Poor physical environment” and “Supervisor’s support” in men, and “Suitable work” in women. Show more

Keywords: Workplace, occupations, gender role, mental health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211307

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1497-1506, 2023

Authors: Iqbal, Muhammad Umer | Ahmad, Naveed | Khan, Zunaira Saif Ullah | Awan, Maryam | Zafar, Ibraheem | Safdar, Ghalia | Altaf, Shafaq | Sajjad, Abdul Ghafoor | Kiyani, Mubin Mustafa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the recent era, musculoskeletal disorders have affected millions of people worldwide. Chefs and other workers of the catering industry are at high risk of physical stresses, which makes them susceptible to develop various musculoskeletal pains and disorders. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to examine the frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms among chefs working in restaurants of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 307 chef participants from the restaurants of the twin cities. The participants were included via convenient sampling and data was collected through Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), …Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) from February to July 2021. RESULTS: Out of 307 participants, 285 were males and 22 were females with a mean age of 32.87±7.03 years. The working duration of 192 chefs were 9–12 hours while 106 and 9 chefs worked only for 4–8 and more than 12 hours, respectively. A total of 101 chefs reported lower back and knee pain. The chefs presented with pain in the shoulders, upper back and ankle as well as feet areas were 98, 93 and 26 respectively. CONCLUSION: Chefs can develop musculoskeletal symptoms including pain as a result of increased physical stress on their bodies during their work, specifically in the lower back and knee area. Show more

Keywords: Fatigue, low back pain, musculoskeletal pain, nordic questionnaire, restaurant chef

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211321

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1507-1513, 2023

Authors: Meng, Qian | Jia, Wenxiu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The dropping out of university students is a serious problem faced by higher education all over the world. Studies have shown that academic hardiness is a positive psychological variable to prevent students from dropping out of university and academic burnout. Psychological hardiness can reduce the dropping out by increasing university students’ academic engagement and academic achievement. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to discover the influence of psychological hardiness on university student’s academic achievement and the mediating role of academic engagement in the relationship between psychological hardiness and academic achievement. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 615 participants. …METHODS: Pearson correlation coefficients were conducted to analyze the relationships between psychological hardiness, academic engagement and academic achievement. Mediation analysis was used to evaluate the mediating role of academic engagement in the relationship between psychological hardiness and academic achievement. RESULTS: The research indicated a closely significant association between psychological hardiness, academic engagement and academic achievement. Psychological hardiness can directly predict academic achievement and can also indirectly predict academic achievement through the intermediary effect of academic engagement. CONCLUSION: This study could have important implications for research by linking psychological hardiness and academic achievement. The results suggest that universities should pay attention to the positive role psychological hardiness plays in improving university students’ academic achievement. This study also benefits the university administrators, especially, those dealing with university students at the risk of dropping out and high academic stress. Show more

Keywords: University students, psychological hardiness, academic engagement, academic achievement, students dropouts

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211358

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1515-1525, 2023

Authors: Fernandes, Kelly | Sá dos Reis, Cláudia | Serranheira, Florentino

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are a significant occupational health concern in radiographers. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe radiographers’ WRMSDs symptoms prevalence and severity, exploring associations with occupational risk factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to explore WRMSDs symptoms and occupational risk factors in radiographers of Western Switzerland using an online survey, based on the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Descriptive statistics were conducted to analyze the collected data, and associative statistics to identify the risk factors related to symptoms. RESULTS: Participants (n  = 359) presented a high prevalence of WRMSDs symptoms in the …last 12 months (94.7%), with a related absenteeism rate of 15.6%. In the last 7 days, symptoms prevalence was 67.7%. The most affected anatomical regions, over both time periods, were the neck (73.0%, 36.8%) and low back (67.4%, 35.7%). Associative statistics underlined risk factors affecting significantly radiographers’ health (OR >2) were the “awkward postures” (OR = 2.86; 95% CI 1.78–4.58) and “feeling anxiety/stress at work” both for low back (OR = 2.38; 95% CI 1.39–4.08), and being a woman for the neck (OR = 2.64; 95% CI 1.51–4.61). CONCLUSIONS: There is a high WRMSDs symptoms prevalence in Western Switzerland radiographers. Radiographers’ work demands namely for awkward postures increases the odds for WRMSDs symptoms presence, affecting predominantly neck, upper and lower back. Our data suggest that further research is needed to implement adapted prevention to this specific context. Show more

Keywords: Occupational diseases, work-related musculoskeletal disorders symptoms, nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, diagnostic imaging, risk assessment and management

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211379

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1527-1537, 2023

Authors: Maleki-Ghahfarokhi, Azam | Azghani, Mahmood-Reza | Asghari-Jafarabadi, Mohammad | Dianat, Iman

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Using both hands is regularly needed for force/torque exertions in many activities, especially when using hand tools. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of tool grip span, workpiece orientation, moving direction, and working height on two-handed wrist U/R deviation torque strength, usability, comfort, and discomfort while using locking pliers. METHODS: Participants (n  = 22) took part in an experimental study which evaluated the effects of tool grip span (4.5–6.5 cm), workpiece orientation (transverse/sagittal), moving direction (clockwise (CW)/counterclockwise (CCW)), and working height (shoulder/elbow/knuckle) on two-handed wrist U/R deviation torque, (dis)comfort, and usability while using locking pliers. RESULTS: …The results showed no significant effect of tool grip span on wrist U/R deviation torque strength, but the locking pliers with 4.5 cm handle grip span led to more comfort and better usability. The two-handed wrist U/R deviation torque strengths were significantly higher in sagittal plane than in transverse plane, and in CW direction than in CCW direction. The highest values of two-handed wrist U/R deviation torque strength in sagittal and transverse planes were exerted in knuckle and elbow heights, respectively. CONCLUSION: The findings can be used to develop guidelines and recommendations with regard to daily and occupational activities which require the use of both hands for force exertion with manual hand tools. Show more

Keywords: Hand tools, locking pliers, two-handed torque, usability, wrist torque

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211397

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1539-1549, 2023

Authors: Simal, Eduardo | Catalá, Joaquín | Arnal, José M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The weak preventive culture among workers in the construction sector leads to the underestimation of risks posed by the presence or handling of chemical agents on-site and, consequently, harms workers’ health. OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this paper are to classify exposure to chemical agents present or used on-site, determine workers’ perception of said agents and establish the influence that socio-demographic variables have on chemical agent exposure and the perception of such exposure. METHODS: A total of 490 workers in the Spanish construction sector participated in this study. The data were gathered through a self-administered questionnaire …that explored socio-demographic characteristics, the degree of exposure to chemical agents, attitudes toward exposure and the prevention of consequences. The underlying dimensions of perception were researched using an adapted version of the questionnaire used by the Paul Slovic group to apply the psychometric paradigm. RESULTS: The levels of exposure to and handling of chemical agents found in the sample were high and moderate, respectively. The participants were found to have advanced knowledge about the effects of exposure, with the majority of the workers considering the probability of suffering a serious disease to be low. Statistically significant associations were found between the socio-demographic variables identified in the sample and the various exposure characteristics. A factor analysis performed on the underlying dimensions of perception provided a final version of the instrument comprising two factors. CONCLUSION: Measures are needed to improve the preventive culture among workers in the construction sector and reinforce on-site preventive measures aimed at preventing or minimising the consequences of exposure to chemical agents. Show more

Keywords: Construction workers, occupational disease, psychometric paradigm, perceived risk

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211420

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1551-1561, 2023

Authors: Alangari, Hessa M. | Alrashed, Abeer M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In recent times, Saudi Arabia has experienced growing industrialisation and more opportunities for business requires more human capital if it is to become one of the largest economies in the world and such growth brings with it some health issues. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to provide analytical illustration of occupational injuries among the workforce in Saudi Arabia. To accomplish the study purpose, four measurements were carried out, the occurrence of occupational injuries, the severity of occupational injuries, the patterns in occupational injuries, and the occupational injuries in relation to the demography of the injured employees. …METHODS: A retrospective study was designed based on a secondary data of occupational injuries (OI) that was obtained from the General Organization for Social Insurance. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the occurrence and the outcome of OI. Multivariate regression was applied to the patterns in OI and to those injuries in relation to the demography of the injured employees. RESULTS: Within two years, Riyadh Province had the highest occurrence of OI (30.6%). Construction and Elementary occupations had the highest occurrence of OI (36.3% and 45.7% respectively). Injuries’ occurrence differed significantly between months. Fridays significantly associated with low injuries. Among demography, injuries differed significantly in relation to the employees’ age. CONCLUSIONS: There was no noticeable decrease in death cases from an earlier local study while they were less compared to other nations (Turkey and South Korea). Compared to other nation, Islamic holidays that are characterized by heat waves were not associated with increased OI. Preventive measures are insufficient. Show more

Keywords: Occupational accidents, work related injury, Saudi Arabia

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211424

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1563-1576, 2023

Authors: Hesari, Reza Zandavar Javad | Rasoulzadeh, Yahya | Mohammadian, Yousef | Nasirzadeh, Nafiseh

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Years ago, the use of asbestos in construction materials was common. Although asbestos has been recently banned in many countries, exposure to asbestos during old building demolition is not unexpected. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess the concentration of exposure to asbestos and estimate its cancer risk among old building demolition workers. METHODS: In this study, personal air samples were collected during building demolition. The number of asbestos fibers in collected samples were determined according to the NIOSH-7400 standard method. Chemical compositions of fibers were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The …carcinogenic risk of exposure to asbestos was determined based on the recommended United State Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) method and Monte-Carlo simulation used to estimate the probability of cancer. RESULTS: Chemical analysis confirmed the presence of asbestos in collected air samples, and 67% of counted fibers were asbestos. In a number of buildings, workers had exposed to asbestos that was higher than occupational exposure limit (0.10 f/ml). Results of cancer risk estimation showed that cancer risk were considerable among workers. CONCLUSION: Implementation of asbestos risk management program such as separation of asbestos containing material, personal protective equipment’s and use of wet method in demolition could minimize asbestos exposure during old building demolition. Show more

Keywords: Airborne asbestos, building, demolition, cancer risk, occupational exposure

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211433

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1577-1584, 2023

Authors: Gany, Francesca M. | Meraji, Nujbat Nasim | Narang, Bharat | Wu, Minlun | Leng, Jennifer

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: New York City’s (NYC’s) taxi/for-hire vehicle (FHV) drivers have occupational and demographic characteristics associated with food insecurity (low income, comorbidities, minority race/ethnicity). OBJECTIVE: To analyze food insecurity rates in a sample of NYC drivers and to identify associated factors. METHODS: At health fairs, we recruited a cross-sectional sample of licensed taxi/FHV drivers willing to receive study text messages. Most lacked a primary care provider. Food insecurity prevalence and associations with health and economic indicators were analyzed. RESULTS: Of 503 participants who completed a 2-item food security screener, 39.2% were food insecure. Significantly fewer …food insecure than food secure drivers reported a doctor visit within the past year (48% vs 25%; P  < .001). Food insecure drivers had greater weekly traffic ticket expenditure ($34 vs $24; P  = .02) and were more likely to report insufficient household income (61% vs 39%; P  < .001) and history of depression (14% vs 7%; P  = .02), to have elevated (>200) measured total cholesterol (50% vs 37%; P  = .02), and to have Perceived Stress Scale scores indicating greater stress than food secure drivers (14 vs 11; P  = .002). In a binary logistic regression analysis, drivers who reported that their total household income was enough to meet their basic needs had significantly lower odds of being food insecure (0.695 odds ratio; P  = .016). CONCLUSION: Food insecurity was high in this group of taxi/FHV drivers. Food insecurity interventions are needed and could be occupationally based, with worksite screening and resource navigation. Policies should address improving wages and healthcare access. Show more

Keywords: Workplace, stress, psychological, food insecurity, primary health care, ethnicity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211471

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1585-1594, 2023

Authors: Ruennusan, Metta | Chaikittiporn, Chalermchai | Taptagaporn, Sasitorn | Boonshuyar, Chaweewon

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Most ergonomics assessment tools for repetitive task have been used in industries which are mainly focused on assessing the biomechanical risk factors that affect musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) rather than the psychosocial and work environment risk factors. OBJECTIVE: To develop a tool for Repetitive Task Risk Assessment (RTRA) and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) that can identify biomechanical, physical stress and psychosocial risk factors, prioritize risk reduction action and systematic record keeping. METHODS: The study consisted of 2 phases; tool development and evaluation of the contents of risk factors by 7 ergonomic experts and intra-rater and …inter-rater reliability and validity tests of the tool by 1 researcher and 9 Thai practitioners to assess 30 repetitive tasks. RESULTS: RULA was modified by adding more biomechanical risk, combining psychosocial and work environment risk factors lead to MSD become the first prototype of RTRA. The Item-Objective Congruence Index (IOC) validated 20 items on usability of each step of the RTRA ranged between 0.64 and 0.93. The examination of the overall intra-rater reliability was 0.932 (95% CI: 0.862–0.967) and the overall inter-rater was 0.956 (95% CI: 0.909–0.978). CONCLUSION: The tool has high test-retest reliability. There is a suggestion for researchers to understand more on the identification of multiple risk factors in one assessment tool and consider a risk-level rating and scoring for prioritizing risk reduction. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics risk assessment tool, observation method, risk prioritization

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220039

Citation: Work, vol. 74, no. 4, pp. 1595-1611, 2023