Work - Volume 75, issue 2

Authors: Chimedza, Isaac | Uys, Kitty | Shaheed, Soeker

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Re-employment of spinal cord injury survivors (SCIS) has been positively related to better community integration. The identification of the determining factors and their impact on return to work (RTW) of SCIS would be helpful in improving the RTW rate. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the factors determining RTW and explore their impact on RTW. METHODS: An adapted Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire Self-Report questionnaire was used to elicit sociodemographic information and work-related characteristics of the participants. Sixty-eight participants with a premorbid worker status completed the questionnaires which were sent via mail, email and …hand delivery. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: At the time of the survey 70.6% of the participants were not re-employed. The inferential statistical analysis indicated that time since injury and re-employment, receiving medical attention due to complications, vocational intervention, supervisor’s support, family support and government support were significant factors of RTW. The results showed no significant differences in RTW by most of the sociodemographic factors. Only two percent of the participants indicated vocational planning and intentions. CONCLUSION: The significant impact of vocational and injury characteristics suggests that vocational rehabilitation services are urgently needed to support SCIS in returning to their worker role. Returning to work is a significant outcome of SCI rehabilitation. Show more

Keywords: Employment, spinal cord injury, work, Namibia

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205036

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 461-469, 2023

Authors: Yağar, Fedayi | Dökme Yağar, Sema

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Reducing the level of organizational silence can play an important role in the work-related decisions of nurses. However, to date a comprehensive study investigating the effect of organizational silence on work engagement, intention to leave, and job performance levels of nurses has yet to be conducted. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explain the effect of organizational silence on work engagement, intention to leave, and job performance of nurses. METHODS: The sample of the study consisted of 224 nurses. The Organizational Silence Scale, the Job Performance Scale, the Intention to Leave Scale, and the Work Engagement …Scale were used to collect data in this study and the Pearson correlation test and regression tests were used in the data analysis. RESULTS: It was observed that organizational silence was negatively correlated with job performance (r  = –0.455) and work engagement (r  = –0.242), and positively correlated with intention to leave (r  = 0.440) (p  < 0.01). Regression analysis also illustrated that dimensions of organizational silence have a significant effect on job performance, intention to leave, and work engagement. CONCLUSION: A decrease in the organizational silence level of nurses is effective in decreasing intention to leave and increasing work engagement and job performance levels. Nurses should be able to express their opinions clearly towards other healthcare professionals and management and management should provide this working environment for nurses. To increase work engagement and job performance levels and decrease intention to leave, meetings and educational programs that reduce organizational silence might be developed at an organizational level by management. Show more

Keywords: Organizational silence, work engagement, intention to leave, job performance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210192

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 471-478, 2023

Authors: Hennaert, Stien | Decuman, Saskia | Désiron, Huget | Braeckman, Lutgart | De Baets, Stijn | Van de Velde, Dominique

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A frame of reference is needed to increase the comparability of vocational rehabilitation assessment instruments and the interpretation of their results. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is a relevant framework, and when linking rules are used, items from existing assessment instruments can be linked to the appropriate categories as described in the ICF. OBJECTIVE: To develop an adapted linking methodology in which experts are involved by means of the application of consensus methods and to transfer this result in a step-by-step set of guidelines, supporting researchers and professionals, linking complex instruments to the …ICF. METHODS: The main researcher developed the initial linking of the Integration von Menschen mit Behinderungen in die Arbeitswelt (IMBA) to the ICF by rigorously applying the refined ICF linking rules. To validate this linking, the Delphi and nominal group technique was integrated through different steps, and experts were involved in the process. The method section describes the linking process chronologically with focuses on the used approach, the involvement of experts, and the processing of the output. RESULTS: The results are presented in a 7-step set of guidelines describing the chronological process from the initial to the validated linking. These guidelines describe the core elements in the application of the linking rules and consensus methods in a manual for researchers who are interested in linking complex instruments to the ICF by involving experts. CONCLUSIONS: The Delphi and nominal group technique can be successfully integrated in the linking process, making it possible to involve experts in linking complex instruments to the ICF. A homogeneous composition of the expert panel in terms of knowledge, a heterogeneous composition in terms of setting, a rigorous and repeated application of the linking rules, and structured processing of the output are essential to achieve a valid linking. Show more

Keywords: Delphi technique, nominal group technique, linking rules, international classification of functioning, disability and health, return to work

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210256

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 479-493, 2023

Authors: Petersen, Kirsten Schultz | Hedeager Momsen, Anne-Mette | Vinther-Nielsen, Claus

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This qualitative study followed participants enrolled in a return to work (RTW) intervention, aiming to address individual physical, psychological and work-related challenges. OBJECTIVE: To explore cancer survivors’ experiences of receiving a tailored RTW intervention initiated parallel with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. METHODS: Two semi-structured interviews of eight female cancer survivors in treatment for breast cancer (n  = 7) or ovaria cancer (n  = 1) were conducted prior or close to their RTW and 3–5 months later. Inspired by Margrit Schreier’s inductive analysis coding and identification of themes guided the analysis. RESULTS: Participants expressed satisfaction with the …RTW intervention, which helped them to cope during the RTW process. Three themes with corresponding subthemes dominated the participants’ experience of the RTW intervention. 1) Social workers made participants feel individually coached, 2) Collaboration with social workers helped over time to manage RTW, and 3) Social workers supported participants to conduct and adjust the RTW plan. CONCLUSION: This study shows how the interaction with social workers were based on mutual trust and sense of being cared for, which seems to have a positive impact on how participants managed their RTW. Future research needs to address the long-term challenges in cancer survivors' RTW. Show more

Keywords: Patient perspectives, occupational rehabilitation, cancer patients, qualitative study

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210421

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 495-506, 2023

Authors: Carlan, Nicolette | Vi, Peter | Yung, Marcus | Du, Bronson | Bigelow, Philip L. | Wells, Richard P.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Recently the plumbing trade has transitioned from traditional copper piping to flexible plastic piping (PEX) for residential water distribution systems. However, there has been very limited research into the ergonomic implications of the modernized processes. OBJECTIVE: This research documents the physical workload and risks of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) with the use of new tools and processes for joining piping. The research also identifies the factors which can facilitate or limit the use of new ergonomically beneficial tools. METHODS: This mixed methods research included workplace observations, interviews, an experiment, a survey of plumbers in residential construction …and focus groups with both plumbers and plumbing contractors. RESULTS: Advantages and disadvantages of the various techniques for joining pipes showed that manual crimping has advantages (i.e., productivity and lower cost) that make it desirable for plumbing contractors. Power devices, which were not widely used, have great potential to reduce MSD risks especially if the size and weight of the tools decreases with newer technologies. A continuing barrier is the cost of power equipment. CONCLUSION: The move to provide ergonomically beneficial tools was not as rapid as the willingness to change piping materials. Productivity and costs of tools are barriers to ergonomic interventions. Show more

Keywords: New tools, construction, ergonomics, plumbing

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210454

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 507-520, 2023

Authors: Gevaert, Jessie | De Moortel, Deborah | Eiffe, Franz Ferdinand | Vanroelen, Christophe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dual labour market theory raises questions about the relationship between non-standard employment and job quality. While scattered empirical evidence exists, there is a paucity of systematic evidence on the relationship between workers’ employment status and job quality. OBJECTIVE: The authors investigated the relation between workers’ employment status (e.g., open-ended, long- and short-term fixed contracts, economically dependent and independent solo self-employment, and self-employment with employees) and important dimensions of job quality (JQ) (e.g., employment prospects, physical work environment, skills and discretion, and working times quality). Cross-national variation in that relation and causes of that variation (e.g., country-level unemployment …rate and labour market efficiency) were also investigated. METHODS: Hierarchical regression modelling was applied using a sample of 34,094 workers from the European Working Conditions Survey 2015. RESULTS: The study highlighted a negative association between fixed-term contracts and JQ. For self-employed workers (except economically dependent self-employed workers) a generally positive association was observed. In this study, also positive associations were found between labour market efficiency at the country-level and some JQ indicators. National unemployment rates were negatively associated to most JQ indicators. CONCLUSION: Non-standard employment contracts exhibited poorer job quality than open-ended contracts. Stronger labour market organization centred around indicators of both flexibility and equity related to more beneficial job quality for all employment statuses, thereby promoting more labour market inclusivity. Show more

Keywords: Multilevel analyses, EWCS, EU28, labour market efficiency, unemployment rate

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210916

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 521-539, 2023

Authors: Mohamad, Nizar Bin Zainal | Koh, Nicklaus Zhi Ming | Yeo, Joanna Peck Tiang | Ng, Min Geng | Turpin, Merrill | Asano, Miho

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Post-stroke return-to-work (RTW) rates reported in Singapore ranged between 38% and 55%, indicating challenges in the RTW process among individuals with stroke. OBJECTIVE: We sought to understand the lived experience of returning to work among individuals with stroke in Singapore. METHODS: This was a qualitative study using a phenomenological approach. We recruited individuals with stroke who were citizens or permanent residents of Singapore. We conducted semi-structured interviews to collect data on their lived experience of returning to work and analyzed the interview data inductively. RESULTS: Twenty-seven participants completed the interviews. Their median age …was 61 years (interquartile range = 54 – 64). They were mostly male (n  = 19, 70.4%) and married (n  = 21, 78%). Twenty participants (74%) returned to work after their stroke. Three major themes emerged from the interviews that underpinned the participants’ RTW experience. They were i) direct impact of stroke, ii) realignment of life priorities, and iii) engagement with support and resources. CONCLUSION: RTW after stroke is complex and influenced by personal and environmental factors. Our findings suggest that individuals with stroke need continuing support to overcome stigma and discrimination, to manage expectations of their recovery process, and to better navigate resources during their RTW process in Singapore. We recommend future studies to design and test the feasibility of appropriate interventions based on our proposed strategies to better support individuals with stroke to return to work. Show more

Keywords: Return-to-work, barriers, facilitators, people with disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211170

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 541-552, 2023

Authors: De Carvalho, Diana | Callaghan, Jack P.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sitting can induce transient low back pain (LBP) in healthy individuals. A rest from sitting should provide relief, however, the parameters of breaks (activity type, intensity, duration, and timing) are not currently known. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of 2-minute walking breaks at 40-minute intervals on sitting-induced LBP. METHODS: Thirty-two healthy participants were recruited for a within-control study: two randomly presented sessions of sitting for 2 hours with and without breaks. Outcome measures were compared between condition and pain group using a three-way ANOVA with significance atp  > 0.05. …RESULTS: Walking breaks at 40-minute intervals result in significantly lower pain ratings than those taken immediately before the break for sitting-induced back pain developers. However, this relief is short lived (<10 minutes), with ratings increasing to pre-break levels once the sitting exposure resumes. There were no differences in biomechanical factors between sessions. Regardless of session type, pain developers displayed higher spine fidget frequency than non-pain developers, females sat with less spine flexion, with greater gluteal activation levels, and with their center of pressure approximately half a centimeter to the left and forward compared to males, and males had significantly greater peak pressures over a smaller area compared to females. CONCLUSION: Walking breaks at 40-minute intervals provide significant, but temporary, relief of sitting-induced back pain for pain developers. Future work should optimize break parameters and examine the longer-term benefit of breaks, especially for individuals that are not able to tolerate sitting for extended durations. Show more

Keywords: Low back pain, walking break, sitting biomechanics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211266

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 553-566, 2023

Authors: Lam, Hilary | Bergquist, Carter | Lee, Collette | McMullen, Jared

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As modern occupations become more sedentary, desk-bound workers are more at risk of chronic diseases. Active workstations have gained popularity in the workplace, but there remain concerns about their impact on cognitive function. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the use of a novel under-desk leg swing device on cognitive ability in the workplace compared to sitting. METHODS: Cognitive ability was measured using a pre-employment aptitude test (CCAT), and perceived outcomes were analyzed via self-report questionnaires. Using a randomized, repeated measures crossover design, 18 undergraduate students undertook the CCAT while using the under-desk leg swing device and …while sitting only (Experiment 1). 9 students returned two to three weeks later to repeat testing (Experiment 2). RESULTS: In Experiment 1, CCAT scores did not differ significantly between the under-desk leg swing device and sitting (mean difference (MD) = –1.056, standard error (SE) = 1.302,p  = 0.429, d = –0.16). Effect sizes of 0.554 were observed for perceived alertness, 0.446 for attention, 0.446 for focus, and 0.564 for enjoyment, but there were no significant differences between the two conditions. CCAT scores were significantly higher in Experiment 2 than in Experiment 1 (MD = 8.444, SE = 2.410,p  = 0.008, d = 1.64). CONCLUSION: Based on Experiment 1, the findings suggest that the use of the under-desk leg swing device promotes movement without detriment to neither workflow nor cognitive ability relevant to employee aptitude compared to sitting. Show more

Keywords: Active workstation, office ergonomics, sedentary behavior

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211375

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 567-576, 2023

Authors: Howell, Kerri-Lee | Naidoo, Deshini | Govender, Pragashnie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Current available literature lacks a focus on the prevention and early intervention stages of the disability claims management process within the South African context. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify fundamental principles to be applied during the prevention and early intervention stages of the disability claims management process within South Africa. METHODS: A qualitative explorative design with a purposive sampling technique to identify stakeholders. Data were collected fromn  = 26 stakeholders using virtual semi-structured interviews. Inductive analysis was used to establish fundamental principles for promoting success in applying a prevention and early intervention approach. …RESULTS: Four fundamental principles were identified: stakeholder communication and education, stakeholder collaboration, support, and buy-in, early identification and early intervention. The literature, data and themes were used to inform development of a prevention and early intervention disability model as well as an employee health and productivity continuum. Analysis of the results showed that achieving and maintaining employee health and productivity is a complex goal. However, a prevention and early intervention approach is beneficial in decreasing the likelihood of ill-health progressing to short or long-term disability absence. CONCLUSION: This study has proposed a prevention and early intervention model for a disability that may be applied to the employee health and productivity continuum in an attempt to mitigate the risk of ill-health and disability occurring and if they do occur, to decrease the length of time that the symptoms impact an employee’s productivity at work. Show more

Keywords: Health continuum, insurance claim, ill-health and incapacity, presenteeism, wellness, prevention

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211384

Citation: Work, vol. 75, no. 2, pp. 577-590, 2023