Work - Volume 76, issue 1

Authors: Ryu, Ganghyun | Jung, Inhwan | Han, Minsoo | Ju, Hyungang | Jung, Younju | Jeong, Sungwoo | Kim, Sujin | Bahn, Sangwoo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The use of home delivery services has expanded due to coronavirus disease – 2019, and couriers’ high level of work intensity has become a severe social issue in various nations. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) caused by frequent loading and unloading actions, known to be the most demanding tasks for couriers. METHODS: A self-report survey and post-hoc interview were employed to collect personal information, task frequency, and the incidence of MSDs. Frequent actions during loading and unloading packages were identified, and the Rapid Entry Body Assessment (REBA) and National …Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) lifting equations were assessed. RESULTS: Approximately 29.5% of the 44 subjects suffered from MSDs, and identify the types of actions that frequently occur during loading and unloading packages. According to the REBA survey, 60% of the responses for both loading and unloading are distributed within the risk range of 8–13 points, suggesting a high risk (mean REBA score: 8.8 (loading), 8.5 (unloading)). In every case, NIOSH determined that the lifting index (LI) was harmful (mean LI: 1.62). Thereby, the bending or twisting posture of the hands and neck, long horizontal distance between the packages and the body, and high lifting frequency were identified as major problems. CONCLUSION: The study identified a very high level of musculoskeletal risk for couriers, and the detailed working methods and body parts vulnerable to MSDs. Show more

Keywords: Courier, loading and unloading, musculoskeletal disorders, REBA, NIOSH lifting guidelines

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220116

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 135-145, 2023

Authors: Askari, Ali | Poursadeqiyan, Mohsen | Sahl Abadi, Ali Salehi | Mahdinasab, Laila | Farhadi, Ali Reza

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workers are exposed to occupational health hazards from physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, and psychological agents. Assessing occupational health risks is vital for executing control measures to protect employees‘ health against harmful occupational agents. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to identify, evaluate, and prioritize occupational health risks to assist senior management in determining where to allocate the budget to carry out the required corrective actions in the oilfields project. METHODS: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was performed in 2021 among Iran’s Sarvak Azar oil field job groups. The occupational health risk was assessed using the Harmful Agents …Risk Priority Index (HARPI) as a semi-quantitative method. Then, to simplify decision-making and budget allocation, we reported HARPI final score in the Pareto principle format. RESULTS: The results show that in this oil field, controlling exposure to adverse lighting, improving the thermal conditions and ergonomics, and preventing noise exposure has the highest priority, with scores of 6342, 5269, 5629, and 5050, respectively. Production, HSE, laboratory, and commissioning need the most health care measures with scores of 8683, 5815, 5394, and 4060, respectively. CONCLUSION: HARPI could be used to prioritize occupational health hazards, and this method can simplify managers’ decisions to allocate resources to implement control measures. Show more

Keywords: Workplace, health priorities, decision making, health planning

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220077

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 147-157, 2023

Authors: Beiranvand, Hossein | Ayoobi, Mahmood | Mortezapour, Alireza | Naseh, Hassan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aviation industry is a complex socio-technical system that has various parts which can be optimized by human factors and ergonomics. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to provide insight into the collaborative ergonomic design process for an astronaut workstation within a small spaceship. METHODS: Having defined the project goals and other quantitative information such as anthropometric dimensions, the Catia software was then used for 3D modeling. Following the initial modeling, the RULA method was used to conduct the initial ergonomic analysis. Following the creation of a simple product prototype, other ergonomic analyses such …as mental workload, perceived physical exertion, and usability were carried out. RESULTS: The results of the preliminary ergonomic analysis indicated that the RULA score was acceptable (the final scores were 2 and 3 for the nearest and the farthest controls). Furthermore, the secondary ergonomic analyses were all satisfactory. The mental workload, SUS, and Borg scores for Bedford were, respectively, 2.2, 85.1, and 11.4. CONCLUSION: The proposed product initially received an acceptable ergonomic store; nevertheless, in order to continue producing this product, ergonomic concerns must be taken into consideration. Show more

Keywords: Human factors, space ergonomics, spacecraft, participatory design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220363

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 159-169, 2023

Authors: Kiremitci, Olcay | Boz, Berkcan | Yıldız Çakır, Lale

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While literature includes a number of studies about burnout in teaching, investigations on teaching field-specific perspective remain limited. Research is needed to improve practical implications based on structured theoretical models and methodological basis that focusses on the unique environment of PE teaching field and causal factors behind burnout. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to examine burnout among physical education (PE) teachers based on the job demands-resources (J-DR) model. METHODS: A sequential explanatory mixed design was conducted in the study. 173 teachers replied to questionnaires, of which 14 teachers thereafter participated in semi-structured interviews. Demographic information …form, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and J-DR scale for PE teachers were used, as well as an interview form. 173 teachers were first asked to report demographic information, and score Maslach Burnout Inventory and J-DR scale. Then a subsample group (n  = 14) was identified/sampled for a semi-structured interview. Canonical correlation and constant comparative analysis were used to unpack the data. RESULTS: Teachers’ states of burnout varied, and physical, organisational, and socio-cultural resources were closely related with burnout levels. Demands that cause pressure on burnout were determined as paperwork and bureaucracy, student-related factors, and pandemic-related experiences. In addition to supporting the general model, specific J-DR factors for PE teaching were observed that is linked with burnout. CONCLUSION: J-DR factors that might lead to negative conditions in the teaching environment should be considered, and field-specific factors should be focused on through arrangements to increase teaching efficiency and improve the quality of PE teachers’ professional life. Show more

Keywords: Burnout syndrome, school, sport, physical education, workplace

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220102

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 171-187, 2023

Authors: Cano-Gutiérrez, Julio César | Olguín-Tiznado, Jesús Everardo | Camargo-Wilson, Claudia | López Barreras, Juan Andrés | García-Rivera, Blanca Rosa | García-Alcaráz, Jorge Luis

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Since 2018, NOM-035-STPS-2018 has been applied in Mexico, focused on measuring psychosocial risk factors (PRFs) in workers and the Reference Guide III (RGIII) has been presented, however, research focused on its validation has been scarce, in very specific sectors and with small samples. OBJECTIVE: Determine the levels of PRFs of five work centers and reliability and validity aspects of RGIII. METHOD: The RGIII was applied to 1458 workers (806 women and 652 men) from five workplace in the industrial sector of Ensenada (Mexico), and the level of risk of the PRFs was analyzed, as well …as their reliability and validity through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). RESULTS: The PRFs with medium, high and very high-risk levels are Workload , Lack of control over work and Workday . The RGIII presents adequate reliability with Cronbach’s α , Alpha ordinal RHO and Omega of 0.93, 0.95 and 0.95, respectively. The EFA shows all five subscales maintain factor loadings greater than 0.43, although Leadership and relationships at work has better saturation values, and Work environment ended with only three items. The CFA indicates Leadership and work relationships with a Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) goodness of fit index of 0.072. CONCLUSION: The RGIII allows the identification and evaluation of the level of risk of PRFs. It complies with sufficient internal consistency. It does not have a clear factorial structure, because it does not meet the minimum values of goodness-of-fit indexes that would allow confirming the structure proposed in RGIII. Show more

Keywords: Psychosocial risk factors, reliability, validity, industry, NOM035

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220316

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 189-203, 2023

Authors: Rezvanizadeh, Majid | Mohammad-Ghasemi, Mostafa | Soltanzadeh, Ahmad | Sadeghi-Yarandi, Mohsen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Conducting practical studies in ergonomics requires attention to all aspects of ergonomics with a comprehensive approach and focus on continuous improvement cycles. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop and present an ergonomics management model in the workplace. METHODS: This study was performed using a three-stage Delphi study with 30 experts and a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process. According to the literature review and experts’ opinions, the general cycle of the ergonomics management system with eight steps was developed. New methods were formed in two of these eight steps: the 3rd step (developing an ergonomic evaluation method) …and the 5th step (creating a cost-benefit evaluation method). RESULTS: The eight implementation steps of the TEMA were determined as follows: 1) Performing task analysis (TTA), 2) Ergonomic hazard identification, 3) Estimating the ergonomic index, 4) Determining control measures, 5) Evaluating cost-benefit parameter, 6) Implementing control measures, 7) Continuous monitoring, and 8) Evaluating the effectiveness of control measures. The Delphi study revealed that the number of deleted parameters includes one item (burnout), and the remaining parameters were 16 items. The mean CVI and CVR values were 0.92 and 0.80, respectively. Cronbach’s alpha values for each of the physical, environmental, and cognitive components and the entire model were 0.91, 0.87, 0.85, and 0.89, respectively. CONCLUSION: Using the mentioned management model can be a practical step towards properly evaluating the most critical dimensions of ergonomics in the workplace and optimal planning to implement control measures to establish a dynamic management system to reduce ergonomic risk factors in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: Keywords: TEMA model, ergonomic risk index, ergonomic assessment, physical ergonomics, cognitive ergonomics, FAHP

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220251

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 205-224, 2023

Authors: Das, Banibrata

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Indian farmers have musculoskeletal disorders as agriculture is a physically demanding occupation. OBJECTIVES: The main aim of this study is to identify ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among different groups of farmers. The other objective is to investigate how MSDs affect farmers’ daily lives and interfere with their activities. METHODS: Farmers were evaluated for the repetitiveness of work and MSDs using the standard Nordic questionnaire, ergonomic assessment tool (REBA), and ART tool. RESULTS: Low back portions were the most affected body parts, followed by the knees (OR = 0.352; 95% …CI = 0.280–0.598), shoulder (OR = 0.657; 95% CI = 0.405–1.066), neck (OR = 0.510; 95% CI = 0.350–0.743), ankle or foot (OR = 0.815; 95% CI = 0.556–1.196), and upper back region (OR = 0.681; 95% CI = 0.463–1.002). The REBA method found that most of the postures in farming are very dangerous. The ART tool showed that most of the activities are repetitive. Working long hours (90%) and monotony at work (87.5%) are the main psychosocial factors, followed by pressure to finish within a given timeframe (71.4%) and injuries related to MSDs. CONCLUSION: Farmers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders in various body parts (lower back, knee, neck, shoulder, and upper back) due to squatting, stooping, and other constrained working postures during agricultural activities. rolonged working hours, repetitive movements, and MMH are ergonomic risk factors forFurthermore, p MSDs. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomic risk factors, ART, manual material handling, posture analysis, psychosocial risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220246

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 225-241, 2023

Authors: Chavez, Julie A. | Nam, Yoon-Sung | Schwartz, Adam | DeMoulin, Doug | Swift, James Q. | Turner, Chuck

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS) are continually required to adjust position and posture to access the limited surgical field in and around the head and neck, oral cavity, and oropharynx. Very limited data exists that quantifies the burden of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among OMS. OBJECTIVE: This exploratory study seeks to address these literature gaps by assessing the prevalence of MSD among OMS. METHOD: A 12-question survey was designed to investigate the prevalence of MSD for OMS, including residents in training, actively practicing surgeons, and retired surgeons. Seventy-six surveys were distributed and completed in person by …surgeons attending professional conferences from September 2018-September 2019. Survey questions included the Baker-Wong Faces pain scale, years in practice, number of hours worked per week, job tenure, pain attributable to work, and age. The Nordic scale identified and delineated anatomic site of musculoskeletal complaints, duration and treatment sought. RESULTS: The most frequently cited sources and locations of pain attributable to occupation were shoulders, neck, and lower back. The risk of MSD symptoms was relatively two-fold [PR = 2.54, 95% CI = 0.90, 7.22] among OMS in practice for more than ten years compared to those in practice less than ten years. After adjusting for age and hours worked per week as potential confounders, the risk of MSD symptoms was higher among OMS in practice for more than ten years compared to those with less than ten years of experience, despite no statistically significant association. CONCLUSION: OMS are impacted by a high prevalence of MSD. The neck, shoulder, and lower back are the most frequently affected with discomfort and pain. This study found that practicing oral and maxillofacial surgery for more than 10 years is a potential risk factor for experiencing MSD. Keywords: Occupational pain, surgical ergonomics, work-related injuries, oral surgery, occupational injury prevention, return to work, workplace health promotion. Show more

Keywords: Oral surgery, repetitive strain injury, occupational injury, surgical ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220059

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 243-249, 2023

Authors: Saari, Anssi | Ma, Xin | Clasey, Jody | Bollinger, Lance | Abel, Mark

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Firefighting is a physiologically demanding occupation and there is a need to evaluate physical and fitness characteristics that are related to attenuated physiological stress during fireground tasks. Previous studies have not measured associations between heart rate responses during simulated fireground tasks with a standardized work rate. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine associations between heart rate during a standardized pace simulated fireground test (SFGT) and heart rate recovery and variability following the SFGT. In addition, this study sought to evaluate associations between heart rate measures versus physical and fitness characteristics in structural firefighter recruits. …METHODS: Twenty-one fire academy recruits performed a standardized pace SFGT while mean heart rate reserve (HRRes ) during the SFGT, change in heart rate variability from rest to post-SFGT (LnRMSSDRest-Post ), and 60-second post-SFGT heart rate recovery (HRR60 ) were measured. Regression analyses were conducted between HRRes , LnRMSSDRest-Post and HRR60 and between heart rate measures versus physical and fitness characteristics while accounting for differences in SFGT completion time. RESULTS: HRRes was associated with LnRMSSDRest-Post , but not HRR60 . Height and pull-ups explained most of the variance in HRRes , height explained most of the variance in LnRMSSDRest-Post and push-ups and 1.5-mile run explained most of the variance in HRR60 . CONCLUSION: Greater cardiovascular stress during fireground tasks is associated with greater depression of post-SFGT heart rate variability, but not heart rate recovery. Physical and fitness characteristics are important to consider in relation to firefighters’ ability to cope with physical stress on the fireground. Show more

Keywords: Cardiovascular system, firefighters, first responders, physical functional performance, workload

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220216

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 251-262, 2023

Authors: Lamsal, Archana | Weidig, Garrett | Bellingar, Teresa | Bush, Tamara Reid

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged sitting during work is common and has been shown to cause health issues. However, changing working postures has been reported to reduce musculoskeletal issues and impact other health issues; thus, there is a need for an office environment with multiple choices of working postures. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in body position, body loading, and blood perfusion while in a seated, standing, and new office seating position, termed the in-between position. METHODS: Ground reaction forces, joint angles, pelvic tilt, openness angle (angle between the pelvis plane and thorax), and …blood perfusion were evaluated for three positions. A motion capture system with markers was used to capture the position of anatomical landmarks. A six-axis force plate was used to collect the ground reaction forces, and a laser doppler perfusion monitor was used to obtain the blood perfusion. RESULTS: Data showed that the in-between position articulated the hips, which provided a hip and lumbar position closer to a standing posture than a seated posture. The average vertical ground reaction force in the in-between position was larger than the seated position but significantly smaller than during standing (p  < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in anterior/posterior ground reaction forces between the seated and the in-between positions (p  = 0.4934). Lastly, blood perfusion increased during the dynamic transitions between positions indicating changes in blood flow. CONCLUSION: The in-between position provides benefits of both standing (larger pelvic tilt and increased lumbar lordosis) and sitting (reduction in ground reaction forces). Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal diseases, hip joint, knee joint, posture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220078

Citation: Work, vol. 76, no. 1, pp. 263-273, 2023