Work - Volume 77, issue 2

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-246001

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 405-405, 2024

Authors: Alqarawi, Firas K. | Alam, Beenish Fatima | Nayab, Talha | Alshehri, Sami | Al-Jandan, Badr | Fahim, Faisal | Ali, Saqib

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has badly affected the mental health, quality of life, and self-esteem of students worldwide. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to evaluate the psychological impact and self-esteem of dental students using Rosenberg self-esteem scale and PIDAQ during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: This cross-sectional research was conducted amongst the dental students studying at various dental colleges in Karachi, Pakistan from January to May 2022. Evaluation of psychological aspect and self-esteem of students was carried out using “Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ)”, and “Rosenberg self-esteem scale” as perceived by students during the …pandemic. For data analysis SPSS v24 was used. Data analysis comprised of descriptive analysis, Spearman correlation, One-way Anova and Linear regression. The level of significance of p value was less than 0.05. RESULTS: Overall 332 students participated, among which there were 181 females (54.5%), 151 males (45.5%). Dental self-confidence showed a negative relationship with social influence, psychological effect, and aesthetic concern, while it was positively linked with self-esteem during the pandemic. Social impact demonstrated association with psychological impact, aesthetic concern, and self-esteem, while it was negatively correlated with dental confidence. Rosenberg score showed positive correlation with all the variables. Statistically significant association was identified for variables when compared with gender. Regression analysis indicated association of age with dental confidence and RSS, while gender with social influence. CONCLUSION: The pandemic, aside from affecting the health of individuals worldwide, also badly affected the well-being, mental health, and self-esteem of the dental students. Dental aesthetics plays a crucial role in the mental wellbeing and self-esteem of the students. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, quality of life, psychological, self-esteem, dental aesthetics, dental students

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220627

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 407-416, 2024

Authors: Kırklıkçı, Ahmet Bora | Bayram, Serap

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably brought up the issue of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) for businesses in Turkey. In this global pandemic, strategies developed to effectively address OHS risks and eliminate them with reliable, high-quality data have gained importance. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the perceptions of employees in the forest products industry in Turkey regarding the OHS during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: The sample of the descriptive and analytical study consisted of a total of 371 employees in forest product businesses located in Turkey. The sample of the study was determined by …the purpose-based sampling method. Data were collected both online and face-to-face from June 2022 to October 2022. The data were obtained using the Questionnaire of Employee and Business Characteristics and the Scale of Employees’ Perceptions on the OHS (S-POHS) adapted by Özden (2022). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and calculated by descriptive analyses, pairwise comparison tests and multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS: 39.1% of the employees with a mean age of 34.12±8.78 years are high school graduates and 61.5% are workers. Significant differences were found in the S-POHS average scores of the employees in the businesses that produce paper-cardboard, have operated for less than 20 years, have a partnership structure with foreign capital and have an OHS Management System Quality Certificate (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: While a positive OHS perception level has already been achieved in the forest products industry in business administrations and by employees, it is clear that this should not be lost and it should be prepared for the next crises by adding new applications. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, safety culture, employee health, perception, prevention and control, risk management, forestry

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220658

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 417-430, 2024

Authors: Ozbozkurt, Onur Basar | Bahar, Emel | Yesilkus, Fatma

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused employees to be mentally absent at work and decreased their motivation and effort when they work collaboratively rather than individually due to the fear of transmission. OBJECTIVES: The study aims to test the effect of fear caused by COVID-19 on levels of presenteeism and social loafing from job tasks of employees. METHODS: Data were collected from 522 white-collar and blue-collar workers in Turkey by the snowball sampling method. Before testing the hypotheses, CFA was performed. Reliability analysis was assessed via Cronbach Alpha (FCV-19S = 0.941; PS = 0.713; SLS = 0.974), AVE (FCV-19S = 0.686; PS = 0.524; …SLS = 0.725), and CR (FCV-19S = 0.734; PS = 0.722; SLS = 0.856) values. The mediating effect of fear of COVID-19 within the impact on presenteeism on social loafing was evaluated through Process Macro for SPSS. The coefficients for both direct and indirect effects were calculated in the 95% confidence interval using 5,000 bootstrap replicates. RESULTS: The results show that presenteeism has a significant positive impact on social loafing. Fear of COVID-19 has a statistically significant impact on presenteeism and social loafing. Also, fear of COVID-19 partially mediates within the impact of presenteeism on social loafing in the study. CONCLUSION: Organizations should consider employees’ views to increase the level of well-being and productivity. A high level of inventiveness from organizations is compulsory to explore which organizational roles and workflow are at least remotely operated during this period. Show more

Keywords: Fear, coronavirus, group dynamics, sickness presence, remote working, social isolation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230025

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 431-443, 2024

Authors: Dehghan, Golnoush | Malekpour, Fatemeh | Jafari-Koshki, Tohid | Mohammadian, Yousef | Rostami, Hossein

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health care workers (HCWs) in hospitals are at risk of infection with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Prevention measures are necessary to protect HCWs against COVID-19. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the status of occupational risk factors and prevention measures for COVID-19 in hospitals. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Iranian hospitals. Based on the results of reviewing the literature and guidelines, two checklists on occupational risk factors and prevention measures for COVID-19 in hospitals were designed and validated. The status of occupational risk factors and prevention measures against COVID-19 in governmental, non-governmental public, …private, and military hospitals were determined using designed checklists. RESULTS: Results confirmed the validity of checklists for assessing the status of COVID-19 prevention measures in hospitals. The military hospitals had the lowest mean risk factors compared to other hospitals, but there was no significant difference in occupational risk factors of infection with COVID-19 among governmental, non-governmental public, private, and military hospitals (P -value > 0.05). In the checklist of occupational risk factors of Covid-19, the type of hospital had a significant relationship with the provision and use of personal protective equipment (P -value<0.05). The mean of implementation of prevention measures among all hospitals were not statistically significant difference (P -value > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The provided checklists could be a suitable tool for monitoring of status of prevention measures for COVID-19 in hospitals. Improving ventilation systems is necessary in most of the hospitals. Show more

Keywords: Hospital, coronavirus, occupational, prevention, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230006

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 445-453, 2024

Authors: Mansour, Zaid M. | Al Nassan, Saad | Hawamdeh, Mohannad | Al Bustanji, Shaden | Alshammari, Faris

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impacts on most aspects of life, including physical and psychological wellbeing. Neck pain is a very common musculoskeletal complaint worldwide, and one that has been impacted by COVID-19. Such impacts have been studied by a few researchers, but not without inconstancies. Moreover, understanding those impacts in relation to rehabilitation is not fully comprehended. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to systematically examine the impacts of COVID-19 on neck pain intensity and onset pre and post the pandemic. METHODS: This study was developed following the Preferred Reporting Items for …Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed-MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. Keywords used were “COVID-19” and “Neck Pain”. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist for prevalence studies. RESULTS: A total of five studies were included with an overall sample size of 2618 participants. Three studies were at moderate risk and two were at high risk of bias. Results from three studies reported an increase in neck pain intensity and onset, while the other two did not report an increase. CONCLUSION: The impact of COVID-19 on neck pain is unclear. The inconsistency in results sheds the light on the importance of having future research (including longitudinal studies) to help guide us towards understanding the real impacts of COVID-19 on neck pain. Show more

Keywords: Coronavirus, COVID-19, global impact, musculoskeletal pain, spine

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220713

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 455-462, 2024

Authors: Roveshti, Mehran Maleki | Pouya, Amin Babaei | Pirposhteh, Elham Akhlaghi | Khedri, Behzad | Khajehnasiri, Farahnaz | Poursadeqiyan, Mohsen

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) and ergonomic risk factors are very common in bakery workers. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to (1) assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among bakers because they use automated machines or traditional baking, and (2) to determine the strategies to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in bakers. METHODS: A systematic review of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted from the beginning to February 4, 2022, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Mesh keywords and phrases were used to execute …the search strategy. Information on MSDs and ergonomic risk factors in bakery workers was collected. Two reviewers worked independently on study selection, data extraction, and paper quality ranking. RESULTS: This study identified 14 papers from seven countries. Although the prevalence of MSDs in bakery workers has been studied, only a handful of them have been studied ergonomic risk factors, and the findings have been very limited. The association between different risk factors and MSDs seemed significant compared to many other occupational diseases. The traditional bread-baking system and lack of mechanization may increase the risk of MSDs in bakery workers. CONCLUSION: WRMSDs for bakery workers have been less studied than other occupational diseases. Our systematic review found several significant relations between the factors influencing the prevalence of MSDs. This study also showed the comparison of traditional and modern cooking systems with diseases of the upper limbs, shoulders, and back pain as possible fields for future research. Show more

Keywords: Occupational disease, ergonomics, food industry, bakery workers, disease, back pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220165

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 463-476, 2024

Authors: Guimarães, Ana | Cavalcanti, Marília | Vasconcelos, Bianca M.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although regulatory norms on work safety offer guidelines for organizing and preventing accidents, the construction site is an environment susceptible to deviations, sometimes due to the lack of effective training. To this end, technologies such as virtual reality become possibilities for innovations with great advantages, as they allow simulations, modeling, exploratory environments and games, which allow the user to create a greater connection and interest in the subject in question. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to present the technological advances applied in safety-oriented training in the construction industry worldwide, emphasizing serious games through a systematic review of the …literature. METHODS: The review was carried out using five scientific databases, with a research protocol to answer questions about the application of gamification to guarantee the safety of workers. RESULTS: Fifteen articles were evaluated, with descriptive, observational research and case studies. It was found that the use of technologies in construction safety is not yet a common reality in the sector, as it presents challenges and limitations, such as gameplay and issues related to cost. However, they show great potential as a dynamic solution in the training of civil construction workers, effectively collaborating in accident prevention and work safety. CONCLUSION: Several software programs and applications were found for creating three-dimensional scenes and for providing users with a customized experience according to the needs observed in the virtual interaction; building information modeling tools, which promote realistic project modeling; and equipment to visualize the scenes created. Furthermore, the possibility of combining traditional theoretical teaching with serious games was verified. However, gamification applicability is an alternative that still has limitations, in addition to the lack of flexibility in the rules imposed on the game, hampering users’ authenticity in making decisions. Show more

Keywords: Serious games, prevention, accidents, construction safety

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220685

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 477-485, 2024

Authors: Vandevenne, Elief | Vanroelen, Christophe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Within the extensive literature on precarious working conditions in the gig economy, remarkably little attention has been paid to how we can formally assess precarity. The few existing measurement instruments that seek to capture precarity in the gig economy assess the characteristics of platforms as job providers, but do not consider the situation of individual gig workers. Moreover, these approaches do not account for the different employment statuses of gig workers. OBJECTIVE: This research’s objective was to adapt, test and validate the Employment Precariousness Scale (EPRES) to the context of food couriers in Belgium. METHODS: …Fieldwork observations were combined with primary survey-data (N = 123). The scale was validated by testing reliability and external validity. RESULTS: Although the small sample size requires caution, the EPRES-gw (i.e., our adaptation for ‘gig work’) indicated sound reliability through sufficiently high internal consistency. The scale also showed good external validity through a significant positive correlation with poor well-being. CONCLUSION: The scale’s characteristics in empirical analyses compare to previous research using the EPRES among employees. The EPRES-gw is therefore a promising instrument for studying employment precariousness in gig jobs. Show more

Keywords: Gig economy, precarious work, well-being, methodological challenges, food couriers, employment quality

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220691

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 487-510, 2024

Authors: Guibert, Nicolas | Martin, Jean-Louis | Gadegbeku, Blandine | Lagarde, Emmanuel | Charbotel, Barbara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Road accidents are the leading type of work-related fatalities, but the impact of work-related travel on overall traffic safety has been scarcely studied. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of the present study was to assess drivers’ relative road accident risk between work-related and personal journeys. METHODS: A responsible/non-responsible case-control study was performed on a sample of 7,051 road accidents in France from the VOIESUR project. Logistic regression determined odds-ratios according to work-related versus personal travel, and identified risk factors for responsibility, specific to each of the two sub-groups. RESULTS: Drivers traveling on duty or …commuting home were significantly less often responsible for accidents than drivers on personal journeys: OR = 0.75 [0.63; 0.89] and 0.65 [0.53; 0.80] respectively. Responsibility was significantly more frequent in commuting to versus from work: OR = 1.38 [1.06; 1.78 ]. Among on-duty drivers, professional passenger-transport drivers had the lowest risk of responsibility (OR = 0.25 [0.11; 0.58]), while those on temporary or work/study contracts and professional light goods vehicle drivers had the highest risk (OR = 11.64 [2.15; 62.94 ] and OR = 29.83 [5.19; 171.38 ] respectively). When driving under the influence of alcohol, risk of responsibility was higher in commuting home than in personal journeys. CONCLUSION: On-duty drivers showed lower risk of responsibility for an accident than other drivers. However, on-duty drivers on temporary or work/study contracts, who are usually not subject to specific regulations, showed higher risk, and should be the subject of particular attention regarding occupational risk prevention. Show more

Keywords: Occupational accidents, traffic accidents, on duty accident, commuting, responsibility, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220578

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 511-522, 2024

Authors: Larsman, Pernilla | Ulfdotter Samuelsson, Amanda | Räisänen, Christine | Rapp Ricciardi, Max | Grill, Martin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The construction industry is heavily affected by occupational accidents, and it is important to investigate how leadership behaviors promoting safety on construction sites are fostered among construction-site managers. OBJECTIVE: The overall aim of this study was to investigate how safety-leadership behaviors can be developed in the construction industry, specifically focusing on managerial role modeling. METHODS: A two-wave longitudinal cohort study with approximately four months between measurement occasions was conducted among construction-site supervisors in Sweden (n  = 51). Supervisors’ ratings of their site managers’ and their own generic and safety-specific contingent reward (CR) leadership behaviors were obtained …by means of questionnaires. Cross-lagged panel models were tested within a path model framework to test the hypothesis that site managers’ leadership behaviors prospectively influence supervisors’ leadership behaviors. RESULTS: Site managers’ CR behaviors prospectively influenced supervisors’ CR behaviors, both generic CR behaviors (β= 0.29, p  = 0.01) and safety-specific CR behaviors (β= 0.22, p  = 0.04). For safety-specific CR behaviors, a reversed effect (β= 0.26, p  = 0.03) was also found, implying that supervisors’ behaviors prospectively influenced site managers’ behaviors. CONCLUSION: Site managers act as role models for supervisors when it comes to developing safety-leadership behaviors on construction sites. The results also indicate that site managers are influenced by their subordinate supervisors’ safety-leadership behaviors. Hence, there seems to be reciprocal interaction between site managers and supervisors in which they influence each other and together shape safety-leadership practices at their construction sites. Show more

Keywords: Occupational health, occupational accident, industrial psychology, social learning, feedback, operant conditioning, questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230031

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 523-531, 2024

Authors: Anttilainen, Julia | Pehkonen, Irmeli | Savinainen, Minna | Haukka, Eija

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Existing research has mostly focused on themes related to returning to or staying at work and studied organizations’ operational rather than strategic level actions to support work ability. Top managers’ understanding of work ability management (WAM) may influence how work ability support processes are implemented in organizations. OBJECTIVE: To find out how top managers define WAM, what the aims of WAM were and whether the aims were on a strategic level. METHODS: Altogether 28 semi-structured interviews among Finnish social and health care top managers were conducted during the years 2019–2021 and analyzed inductively using qualitative …thematic analysis. RESULTS: Top managers’ definition of WAM was mainly multidimensional. Two main aims were identified, i.e., to support work ability 1) at the individual and 2) at the organizational level. The aims of the former were to anticipate the decrease of health and functional capacity, to support workers already decrease in these, to develop competence, and to manage the effects of changes on work ability. The aims at the organizational level were to improve labor availability and personnel retention, to ensure the flow of work, and to increase trust and create shared values. Top managers described the aims as being at a strategic level, but this was not yet realized in their organizations because the actions were reactive rather than proactive. CONCLUSION: Top managers’ multidimensional perception of WAM, emphasizing proactive actions, and strategic level aims are crucial and require the commitment of the top managers for strategic WAM, especially during constant changes. Show more

Keywords: Leadership, occupational health, health promotion, disease management, change management, human resources

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230034

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 533-545, 2024

Authors: Liyanage, Esther | Chellapillai, Dhananjee | Liyanage, Indrajith | Samarakoon, Chamini | Samarasekara, Heshani | Rikas, Mohamed

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are highly prevalent among people who work in sedentary jobs. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) is a valid tool to assess WMSDs, but is not available in the local language of Sri Lanka (Sinhala). OBJECTIVE: To cross-culturally adapt the original CMDQ from English to Sinhala and evaluate its psychometric properties. METHODS: The linguistic and cultural adaptation of the CMDQ to the Sinhala (Si-CMDQ) language followed international guidelines. The adapted pre-version was tested for comprehensibility among 32 subjects from different educational and occupational backgrounds. The Content Validity Index …(CVI) was computed with ratings from five experts. The questionnaire was validated further by 111 security guards employed at the university. The tool was validated with reference to the Numeric Rating Scale. Test-retest reliability was assessed at two time points one week apart and internal consistency was tested. RESULTS: The Si-CMDQ showed adequate cross-cultural, content and construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. The Kappa coefficient showed excellent agreement between NRS and Si-CMDQ frequency scale. Spearman’s correlation coefficients showed a moderate to a strong significant positive correlation between NRS and the severity scale of Si-CMDQ. The Kappa values for test-retest reliability were moderate to excellent for the three scales of CMDQ. The internal consistency was high. CONCLUSION: The Si-CMDQ fulfilled the psychometric requirement for questionnaires. This tool will be beneficial to assess WMSDs among sedentary workers in different occupations in Sri Lanka. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal discomfort, pain, validity, reliability, sedentary, questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220295

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 547-559, 2024

Authors: Rajappan, Dhaneesh | Mailerum Perumal, Arun | Santhi, Iswarya Vijayakumar | Narayanan, Rajkumar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Developing employee well-being as well as lowering stress may have several benefits for organizations. Stress management intervention techniques utilized via organizations help to develop worker mindfulness and well-being, and reduce stress. OBJECTIVE: To review stress management interventions to determine the effectiveness of diverse interventions in improving the mindfulness and well-being of employees working in an organization. METHODS: This work is split into two main sections: collection of data and analysis of data. First, data collection is carried out. The structured questionnaire was organized and distributed to managers and working employees of an …organization. Based on the developed hypothesis, the questionnaire was arranged and all queries were compulsory. Subsequently, the collected data were performed by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) analysis. RESULTS: The Standard Mean Residual Root Square for the baseline model of mindfulness and well-being of employees working in an organization is 0.2156, which is better than threshold value. CONCLUSION: From the analysis, the goodness of fit and significant relation among the stress intervention techniques as well as mindfulness and well-being of employees in an organization has been found. Show more

Keywords: Data, organization, managers, questionnaire, hypothesis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220410

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 561-571, 2024

Authors: Noda, Yoshikazu | Asano, Kenichi | Shimizu, Eiji | Hirano, Yoshiyuki

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Emergency service workers have highly stressful occupations; the stressors encountered can contribute to the development of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). OBJECTIVE: The present study used a conceptual model and survey to identify variables influencing the association between probable PTSD and quality of life (QOL) in emergency service workers. METHOD: PTSD was assessed using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised. QOL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. Path analysis was used to determine whether stress-coping (Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced [Brief …COPE] scores), social support (Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support [MSPSS] scores), and resilience (Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale scores) explain the association between probable PTSD and QOL among 220 emergency service workers in Japan. RESULTS: Impact of Event Scale-Revised scores were significantly positively associated with Brief COPE Active coping scores and significantly negatively associated with MSPSS scores. Brief COPE Active coping and MSPSS scores were significantly positively associated with Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale scores, which were in turn significantly positively associated with Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey scores. CONCLUSION: Active coping in response to stressful situations is important for maintaining good mental health among emergency service workers. Active coping and social support may strengthen resilience, and resilience may improve QOL. Screening for mental health and QOL should include simultaneous assessment of stress-coping, social support, and resilience. Although the findings of this cross-sectional study are important, it could not confirm a causal relationship between PTSD and QOL. Show more

Keywords: Firefighter, resilience, quality of life, coping strategy, social support, posttraumatic stress disorder

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220551

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 573-587, 2024

Authors: Letícia Maria Barbano, M.S. | de Almeida, Pedro Henrique Tavares Queiroz | Pontes, Tatiana Barcelos | da Cruz, Daniel Cezar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Working part-time or full-time is a persistent dilemma for women, especially mothers, as they strive to manage their time across various roles. However, the existing literature remains unclear on whether part-time work contributes more to life satisfaction than full-time work. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe and compare time-use patterns in different occupational roles and levels of life satisfaction among 795 mothers in Brazil who are employed either part-time or full-time. METHODS: Data was collected through an online survey and the snowball technique. Regression and correlation analyses were performed on the data obtained from the …following instruments: the Role Checklist for assessing time-use within occupational roles, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and demographic information. RESULTS: Our analysis revealed no significant differences in life satisfaction between mothers working full-time and those working part-time (t (793)=1.160, p  = 0.24). However, life satisfaction scores were positively correlated with the number of occupational roles performed (r  = 0.222, p  < 0.01), higher family income (P  < 0.001), and engagement in social roles such as Friend (r  = 0.106, p  = 0.003), Hobbyist/Amateur (r  = 0.08, p  = 0.018), and Caregiver (r  = 0.07, p  = 0.026). CONCLUSION: While our society places significant emphasis on time spent at work, our findings highlight that life satisfaction extends far beyond the dichotomy of working part-time or full-time. There are deeper dimensions to consider, including the number of occupational roles, family income, and engagement in social roles, which have a more substantial impact on overall life satisfaction. Show more

Keywords: Work, family, gender roles, role, women, mothers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220644

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 589-599, 2024

Authors: Zhu, Di | Tian, Xiaoming | Li, Rui

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mutual help among members is critical to the accomplishment of complex tasks in an organization. Helping behaviors are infectious, and employees learn to imitate their coworkers’ helping behaviors through observation. However, whether coworker helping triggers imitation learning depends on observers’ motivational attributions for coworker helping behaviors to some extent. OBJECTIVE: Based on attribution theory and approach-avoidance framework, this research explored the approach and avoidance-oriented emotional and behavioral consequences of observers’ prosocial and impression management motivational attributions of coworker helping behavior. METHODS: An experimental study with 178 participants and a field study with 259 employees was …conducted. RESULTS: The results revealed that observers attribute coworkers’ helpfulness to prosocial motivation, which elicited observers’ approach-oriented emotions (i.e., positive empathy) and behaviors (i.e., helping behavior) and reduced coworker exclusion, while impression-management motivation elicited observers’ avoidance-oriented emotions (i.e., disgust) and behaviors (i.e., coworker exclusion) and reduced helping behavior. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that prosocial motivational attributions and impression management motivational attributions are key factors in determining whether observers have approach- or avoidance-oriented emotions and behaviors toward coworker helping. Accordingly, individual employees and managers should focus on employees’ motivation to help others in order to promote mutual support and harmony in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: Helping behavior, motivation, peer influence, empathy, disgust, workplace

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220647

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 601-614, 2024

Authors: Kordmiri, Seyed Hojat Mousavi | Aliabadi, Mohsen | Golmohammadi, Rostam | Bovenzi, Massimo | Farhadian, Maryam

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Construction workers are exposed to hand-transmitted vibration (HTV) and/or noise caused by vibrating hand tools in the work environment. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to investigate the effects of exposure to HTV and/or noise on workers’ hearing loss and body balance. METHODS: Forty construction workers were exposed to HTV (10 m/s2 rms, 31.5 Hz) and/or typical construction noise (90 dBA) in three simulated experiment scenarios with the vibrating hand-held tool for 30 minutes over three days. The hearing loss from 1000 to 6000 Hz and the body balance were determined before and after each exposure scenario. …RESULTS: Separate noise exposure at all frequencies except for 1000 Hz could significantly affect hearing threshold levels (p -value<0.05). Separate exposure to HTV cannot lead to a remarkable effect on hearing loss (p -value>0.05); however, it can synergistically increase the effect of noise on hearing loss. Also, the affected frequency range in concurrent exposure has been greater than in separate noise exposure. The separate effects of exposure to HTV and noise on the subjects’ body balance were not statistically significant (p -value>0.05); however, these effects became significant in concurrent exposure (p -value<0.05). Based on the estimated effect sizes, noise could synergistically increase the observed effect of HTV on body balance. CONCLUSION: There is a synergistic interaction between HTV and noise on hearing loss and body balance. It seems necessary to pay attention to the risk evaluation of simultaneous exposure to noise and HTV when setting the occupational action limit values. Show more

Keywords: Hand-arm vibration, occupational noise, hearing loss, posture balance, construction industries

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220662

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 615-628, 2024

Authors: Boucaut, Rose | Wong, Edith

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The University of South Australia’s Bachelor of Physiotherapy course, ‘Work Health and Safety (WHS) Practice’, provides students with introductory practical WHS experience. Students undertake 80-hour effort WHS projects for industry, culminating in a report for hosts. OBJECTIVE: To establish the types of industry that host WHS undergraduate physiotherapy placements and the nature of activities that students conduct. METHODS: Reports were retrospectively, systematically classified using a descriptive, document content analysis approach. Demographic data were collected: report and student numbers, placement locations and industry types. Selected reports were used as a subset for further analysis with definitions …created to classify the nature of placement activities. RESULTS: Most reports were written by a pair of students (88%, n  = 269), with placements based in metropolitan Adelaide (91%, n  = 284). Various industries hosted students, including healthcare and social assistance (40%, n  = 117) and manufacturing (30%, n  = 89). Reports primarily included risk management activities as required by WHS legislation (97%, n  = 229). CONCLUSION: Physiotherapy student WHS activities maintain close links with industry, involving stakeholders (workforce, students, University of South Australia and academics). At an entry-level standard, the student WHS activities align well with some criteria set as key competencies for Australian Occupational Health physiotherapy practitioners. Show more

Keywords: Students –health occupations, health personnel, organization and administration, workplace, musculoskeletal diseases, physical therapists

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220676

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 629-640, 2024

Authors: Shehata, Mai Ali | Basyouny, Sara El-Sayed | Atef, Hady | Hussien, Hossam El-Dien | Botla, Afaf M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Stress and fatigue experienced by lactating employed mothers can affect mothers’ and babies’ mental and physical health detrimentally. Aerobic exercise is known to control stress and fatigue, but the dosages of the exercises needed to maintain long-term effects are still under investigation. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the acute and long-term effects of aerobic exercise on controlling stress and fatigue in lactating, employed mothers. METHODS: This randomized control study involved sixty lactating, employed mothers suffering from stress and fatigue. They were divided into two groups: Group A received five sessions of …30-minute aerobic training on a treadmill per week, in addition to lifestyle modification advice for six weeks. Group B received the same lifestyle routine advice for the same duration without being trained. Assessments of stress and fatigue levels were done before, after 6 weeks, and after 6 months from the baseline assessments using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), respectively. RESULTS: Post-six-week comparisons within and between both groups showed a significant decline in PSS-10 and FAS in group A compared with group B (p  < 0.001); however, after six months of follow-up, there were statistically significant effects within groups only (p  < 0.05) and no statistically significant difference between groups at both variables (p  > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Aerobic exercises for 6 weeks can induce an acute but not long-term effect on stress and fatigue control in lactating-employed mothers. Future research is needed to tailor the exercise prescription needed to maintain training’s long-term benefits. Show more

Keywords: Exercise training, lactation, employment, short-term effects, long-term effects, occupational stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220677

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 641-649, 2024

Authors: Odell, Dan | Dorbala, Navaneeta

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There are difficult tradeoffs when designing head-mounted equipment such as helmets, lights, cameras, or virtual or augmented reality displays. Increased functionality and battery life adds weight, which in turn reduces comfort. A successful product must balance both comfort and functionality to achieve its product engagement goals. OBJECTIVE: This study defines “comfortable wear time” as a new metric, and applies it to the domain of headsets in determining the relationship between headset weight and comfort. METHODS: Sixteen study participants wore four otherwise identical headsets weighted between 500g–600 g for up to two hours each in an office …environment. If participants experienced more than “mild discomfort” (>3 on an NRS-11 discomfort scale), the trial ended early, and the comfortable wear time was recorded. Intensity and location of discomfort was rated at trial conclusion, and qualitative feedback collected. RESULTS: Higher weights were associated with shorter comfortable wear times. Not everyone could wear even the lightest headset (500 g) for the full two hours. Qualitatively, discomfort took many forms beyond the expected neck fatigue or contact pressure and included symptoms commonly associated with motion sickness, such as headache and dizziness. Finally, there were pronounced gender differences with females experiencing more severe discomfort with earlier onset. CONCLUSION: Heavier headsets were less comfortable for the lower quartile of participants –yielding an average of 11 fewer minutes of comfortable wear time per 33 g of weight added. Understanding the discomfort costs from adding weight empowers product teams to find the correct balance to meet their product engagement targets. Show more

Keywords: Discomfort, pain, virtual reality, augmented reality, extended reality, personal protective equipment (PPE), headgear, head-mounted display (HMD)

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220689

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 651-658, 2024

Authors: Hosseini, Zahra Sadat Javadi | Mokhtarinia, Hamid Reza | Haraldsson, Patrik | Gabel, Charles Philip

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: To assess relevant environmental conditions in any work-setting requires a multidisciplinary perspective that is practical, valid, and reliable. This includes the physical, environmental, and psychosocial risk-factors. The Structured Multidisciplinary work Evaluation Tool (SMET) questionnaire simultaneously considers multiple work-related demands. OBJECTIVE: This study translated and culturally adapted the SMET into Persian and evaluated its psychometric properties in Persian industrial workers. METHODS: Cross-sectional translation and cross-cultural adaptation in five standardized phases. A convenience sample (n  = 211) recruited from an industrial-occupation setting completed: the SMET; and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration …Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) criteria; plus light and noise levels were concurrently assessed. Psychometric properties included: validity, with face (from confirmed language clarity, simplicity, and readability), content (via the content validity index, CVI, for equivalency and relevancy), criterion (through Pearson’s r correlation with relevant criteria), and construct (through known group validity between participants with/without work-related musculoskeletal disorders, WMSDs); internal consistency (Cronbach’s α); and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC2.1 ). RESULTS: Validity was confirmed with: face through the adaptation; content from suitable CVI values for items (CVI range = 0.78–1.0) and scale-total (CVI = 0.86); criterion from SMET associations with levels for light (r = – 0.42) and noise (r = 0.21), plus RULA (r = 0.42) and NASA-TLX (r = 0.39); and construct through participants with WMSD having significantly higher SMET total-scores (p  = 0.01). Internal consistency (α= 0.89) and reliability (ICC2.1  = 0.87) were acceptable and strong. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that the SMET Persian version had acceptable psychometric properties in an industrial occupational setting. Further investigation in longitudinal populations is recommended. Show more

Keywords: Psychosocial demand, physical demand, reproducibility, validation, health outcome

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220706

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 659-669, 2024

Authors: Yang, Zhirong | Huang, Yong

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked increased interest in telework as a means of reducing the spread of the virus and maintaining social distance. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to generate a bibliometric analysis of research progress and trends in telework over the past 20 years. METHOD: A search of key terms was conducted in the Social Science Citation Index, Science Citation Index Expanded, and Arts and Humanities Citation Index categories for documents published on telework from 2000–2023. A total of 3,446 studies were analyzed using VOSviewer for co-citation, co-word, and cluster analysis. RESULTS: Bibliometric …analysis revealed that telework research has experienced a significant increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the number of publications in 2022 being more than 15 times higher than that in 2019. The analysis revealed that the most commonly researched areas related to telework were applied psychology, management and business. The knowledge base focuses on the antecedents, moderators, mediators, and consequences of telework, and the research primarily centers around seven directions of well-being, mental health, and work-family conflict. A conceptual framework for telework research and suggestions for future investigation are proposed based on the results of the bibliometric analysis. CONCLUSION: This study provides an overview of telework research over the past two decades, highlighting the current status and hot topics in the field. It calls for wider and more active participation of researchers globally to advance the understanding of telework. Show more

Keywords: Flexible working, work-family conflict, well-being, mental health, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230060

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 671-686, 2024

Authors: de Oliveira, Fabrício Emanuel Soares | Júnior, Hercilio Martelli | Trezena, Samuel | da Silveira, Denise Maria Mendes Lúcio | de Oliveira, Ludmila Ketlen Soares | de Oliveira, Andrielly Gonçalves Nobre | Fagundes, Maria Eduarda Vieira | Brito, Maria Fernanda Santos Figueiredo | Dias, Verônica Oliveira | Martelli, Daniella Reis Barbosa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic had direct and indirect impacts on public health, also affecting the mental health of the population. OBJECTIVE: To analyze symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and associated factors, in primary health care (PHC) professionals. METHODS: Cross-sectional and analytical study conducted with professionals who work in the Primary Health Care (PHC) of the Northern health macro-region of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data collection was carried out through an online, self-administered questionnaire, made available from August 27, 2021, to October 30, 2021 using the Google Forms tool. The questionnaire included sociodemographic questions …as well as questions related to the history of anxiety and work during the pandemic. To assess anxiety symptoms, the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) instrument was used. Data treatment consisted of descriptive analysis of the variables, bivariate analysis followed by multivariate Poisson Regression with robust variance. RESULTS: 702 health professionals participated in the study and the general prevalence of GAD was 32.2%. Current anxiety symptoms were self-reported by 37.6% of the participants. In the final model, the associated factors identified were: female sex (PR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.17–2.84; p  = 0.007), previous symptoms (PR = 1.58; 95% CI = 1.19–2.10; p  = 0.002) and (PR = 2.68; 95% CI = 2.00–3.62; p  < 0.001) current self-reported anxiety. CONCLUSION: The results show the need to implement actions in mental health promotion and anxiety prevention, through the dissemination of information about mental health care, health education activities, encouraging the adoption of healthy habits and professional monitoring when necessary. Show more

Keywords: Anxiety, health personnel, primary health care, COVID-19, pandemics, mental disorders

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230160

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 687-696, 2024

Authors: Kumar, Ashish | Senapati, Amrites | Bhattacherjee, Ashis | Ghosh, Apurna | Chau, Nearkasen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Improvement of workers’ safety performance is an integral and essential part of safety management. Relevant safety interventions to improve workers’ safety performance are generally difficult to establish when there is a wide range of occupational hazards and at-risk individuals’ features. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at formulating a practical approach to develop and prioritize potential safety interventions based on occupational and individual risk factors perceived by workers to promote workers’ safety performance. METHODS: A simple framework developed to identify and prioritize the suitable safety interventions. This framework made use of data collected using …standardized and validated questionnaire and domain experts’ opinions. Pearson correlation coefficients, exploratory factor analysis, and multiple linear regression were used to identify significant risk factors associated with workers’ safety performance. Data were collected by interviewing 202 coal mine workers with occupational injuries, and their immediate supervisors from three mines. RESULTS: Safety performance was associated with the occupational factor-domain (poor working condition, poor safety environment, poor job satisfaction, and high job stress) only (regression coefficient = 2.14, p  < 0.01). The following interventions were identified and prioritized to promote workers’ safety performance: provide fair compensation to workers, job-specific and safety training, promotion policy, achievable targets, relevant perks/benefits, safety training awareness, workplace lighting, ventilation network, sensitize the management, associate safety performance to promotion, and develop team spirit. CONCLUSION: Our approach helps to identify and prioritize the most relevant interventions to promote safety at work when there are multiple risk factors. Show more

Keywords: Safety, intervention and control, safety management, occupational injuries, risk assessment, data analysis

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230172

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 697-709, 2024

Authors: Murni, Indah Puspa | Ardiyanto, Ardiyanto

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged use of computer devices can have adverse health effects, but these can be mitigated by setting up computer workstations according to ergonomic principles. The Computer Workstation Ergonomics: Self-Assessment Checklist can guide workers in implementing these principles. However, the checklist is only available in English, which may reduce the accuracy of the instrument when used by non-English speakers, including Indonesians. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to cross-culturally adapt the Computer Workstation Ergonomics: Self-Assessment Checklist for use in Indonesia. Additionally, a reliability assessment was conducted on the adapted checklist. METHODS: This study followed a …six-stage cross-cultural adaptation process, including translation, synthesis of translation, back translation, expert committee review, pretesting, and documentation submission. The final version of the adapted checklist underwent testing for intra-rater reliability, inter-rater reliability, and internal consistency. RESULTS: The cross-cultural adaptation process resulted in an Indonesian version of the Computer Workstation Ergonomics: Self-Assessment Checklist. Furthermore, the Krippendorff’s alpha values for the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of the adapted checklist ranged from 0.59 to 0.78 (mean = 0.70) and 0.20 to 0.82 (mean = 0.56), respectively. CONCLUSION: The study produced an Indonesian version of the Computer Workstation Ergonomics: Self-Assessment Checklist that had an adequate reliability. The adapted checklist can serve as a practical tool for evaluating and improving computer workstations in Indonesia. Show more

Keywords: Adaptation, computers, workstation, ergonomics, assessment, checklist, Indonesia

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230201

Citation: Work, vol. 77, no. 2, pp. 711-717, 2024