Searching for just a few words should be enough to get started. If you need to make more complex queries, use the tips below to guide you.
Purchase individual online access for 1 year to this journal.
Price: EUR 250.00Authors: Kakaraparthi, Venkata Nagaraj | Vishwanathan, Karthik | Gadhavi, Bhavana | Abdulelah Alkhamis, Batool | Reddy, Ravi Shankar | Tedla, Jaya Shanker | Dixit, Snehil | Gular, Kumar | Gannamaneni, Vamsi Krishna | Ahmad, Irshad | Alshahrani, Oun Mohammad | Almushari, Muath Hassan Yahya
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Accurate assessment tools for work rehabilitation are essential in healthcare settings. Adapting the Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire (WORQ) to Arabic-speaking populations ensures effective evaluation and intervention for individuals with work-related disabilities. OBJECTIVE: To execute a cross-cultural adaptation of interview-administered version Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire –Arabic (WORQ-A) and assess the psychometric properties of WORQ-A in patients with musculoskeletal problems. METHODS: WORQ is mainly intended to assess the work functioning of persons who are involved in vocational rehabilitation. Psychometric properties were scrutinized in the outpatient rehabilitation center. Test–retest reliability was examined with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), …and internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach’s alpha. The usability of WORQ-A was established in 46 patients with musculoskeletal problems. RESULTS: WORQ-A exhibited exceptional internal consistency (0.93) and a great test–retest reliability (0.87). Regarding usability, the ability to understand the questions and answer choices was established as good. Five percent of the participants encountered minor difficulties with certain words, while the majority found it quite straightforward to choose the correct answers. CONCLUSIONS: The WORQ-A is an effective, consistent, and very easy to administer questionnaire to assess the work-related functions assumed in our study context and the individualities of the sample. Show more
Keywords: Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, validation, vocational rehabilitation, WORQ
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230241
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-9, 2024
Authors: Lopes, Ester Rodrigues do Carmo | Macêdo, Flávia Pessoni Faleiros | Fifolato, Tha’ıs Marques | Nardim, Heloisa Correa Bueno | Suzuki, Karen Ayumi Kawano | Fonseca, Marisa de Cássia Registro
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work related shoulder disorders adversely affect the quality of life and lead to increased costs related to decreased productivity and injury treatment. Therefore, understanding the relationship between strength, upper extremity function and work ability contributes to the development of interventions aimed to improve the well-being of healthcare workers. OBJECTIVE: Correlate shoulder abduction and handgrip strength with upper extremity function and work ability in healthcare workers with shoulder complaints. METHODS: 67 workers with shoulder pain in the last year were assessed by Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), Work Ability Index (WAI), …isokinetic shoulder strength and isometric handgrip strength dynamometers. Data were analysed with Spearman’s Correlation Coefficient (ρ = 0.05), SPSS 20.0 ® . RESULTS: 52% males, mean age 48.4 years, 42% physically active, most administrative and general services workers. Low correlation between handgrip strength and QuickDASH (r =-0.359; p = 0.004); low correlation between handgrip strength and WAI (r = 0.359; p = 0.003) and between shoulder abduction strength and the QuickDASH (r = -0.267; p = 0.049); no significant correlation between shoulder abduction strength and WAI (r = 0.001; p = 0.997). CONCLUSIONS: Handgrip and shoulder abduction strength were inversely associated with upper extremity dysfunction. Shoulder abduction strength was associated with work ability. The inclusion of strength assessment in workers is important to guide strategies to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. Show more
Keywords: Occupational health, musculoskeletal disease, work, muscle strength, shoulder, pain
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230373
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-12, 2024
Authors: Ziyan, Hou | Jizu, Li
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the context of smart mine construction, coal mine safety management is imposing stringent requirements on the safety competence of miners. To meet these demands, coal mine enterprises have initiated proactive measures to recruit a new generation of knowledge-based miners who possess high qualifications and specialized backgrounds. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to explore the underlying mechanisms of identity conflict (IC) and its influence on unsafe behavior (USB) among KBMs within the context of China’s smart mining initiatives, as well as to identify the role of potential mediating and moderating variables in this relationship. …METHODS: An empirical study was conducted on a sample of 304 KBMs with a college degree or above, selected from multiple coal mines in Shanxi Province, China. Hierarchical regression analysis and the Bootstrap method were employed for data analysis. This model incorporated IC as the antecedent variable and meticulously investigated the mediating effects of role breadth self-efficacy (RBSE) and psychosocial resources (PSR), along with the moderating effect of positive explanatory bias (PEB). RESULTS: The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between IC and USB among KBMs. RBSE and PSR were found to mediate the relationship between IC and USB. Moreover, this mediating effect further influenced the relationship between IC and USB through a chain mediating effect. Additionally, PEB strengthened the positive impact of KBMs’ RBSE on PSR. CONCLUSION: These results provide a broader perspective on the antecedent variables associated with KBMs’ USB and provide valuable insights and practical management strategies enhancing the safety management practices within coal mining enterprise. Show more
Keywords: Knowledge-based miners (KBMs), identity conflict (IC), unsafe behavior (USB), role breadth self-efficacy (RBSE), psychosocial resources (PSR), positive explanatory bias (PEB)
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230685
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-10, 2024
Authors: Hsieh, Yu-Wen | Huang, Charles Lung-Cheng
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Police work, known for its high stress, exhibits elevated depression rates. OBJECTIVE: This study explores stress and depression in male officers, examining personality traits, coping strategies, family, and social support. Aligned with the diathesis–stress hypothesis and job demands–resources model, it aims to illuminate these factors in policing. METHODS: Two hundred and sixty-four male police officers from Yunlin, Taiwan were enrolled in this study. Structured measurements of stress level, depression symptoms, personality traits, family functioning, and social support were made. We used multiple regression analysis to assess predictors of stress level and depression …and identified coping strategies used by the police officers. RESULTS: Of the 264 male police officers, 36.4% had clinically significant depression. Occupational stress was mostly related to organizational factors. Multivariate regression analyses showed that age, personality traits, officer’s rank, and period of education obtained could predict police officers’ occupational stress. Personality traits, social support, occupational stress, and period of education obtained could predict depression. The most frequently used coping strategies were drinking and smoking. CONCLUSIONS: The results of our study support the diathesis–stress hypothesis and the job demands–resources model. Enhancing male police officers’ mental well-being requires addressing key factors like social support and occupational stress. Strategic measures, such as mental health education, destigmatization, counseling, and community-building, are vital. Policymakers should collaborate with mental health professionals for tailored interventions, fostering a healthier work environment. Show more
Keywords: Occupational stress, depression, police, diathesis–stress hypothesis, coping strategies, personality traits
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230452
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2024
Authors: Dost, Ayse | Sezgin, Duygu | Esin, Melek Nihal
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: The conditions in the workplace have a critical influence on the mental health of nurses and their attitudes toward their job, which may impact patient care. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between perceptions of the work environment and fear of COVID-19 experienced by nurses. METHODS: The data were collected using a demographic data form, the Work Environment Scale (WES), and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. The study was completed with 183 nurses who provide care to COVID-19 patients. RESULTS: The mean scores for the WES …and Fear of COVID-19 Scale were 63.59±12.35 and 21.98±8.36, respectively. There was a positive correlation between the points acquired from the “employee fears” section of the WES and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale mean ranks (r = 0.22). There was a weak negative correlation between the Fear of COVID-19 score and the WES “job satisfaction” score (r = –0.214). There was a weak negative correlation between the scores of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale and perceived support at work (r = –0.33) and between the WES scores and weekly working hours (r = –0.27). However, there was a weak to moderate positive correlation between the WES scores and number of days off per week (r = 0.45). CONCLUSIONS: Nurses experience a high fear of COVID-19, and a decrease in their attitudes of the work environment was associated with an increased fear of COVID-19. The fear of COVID-19 may be reduced by various interventions to provide support at work and increase nurses’ job satisfaction. Show more
Keywords: associated conditions, environment, fear, nurse, pandemic, workplace
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230121
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2024
Authors: Hajizadeh, Roohalah | Ghiasvand, Fatemeh | Azimi Pirsaraei, Seyed Reza | Khani, Fouzia | Feiz-Arefi, Maryam | Beheshti, Mohammad Hosein
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Vibration is one of the harmful factors for forklift drivers. The use of non- standard seats and not paying attention to how the seats are maintained can be affected by the amount of vibration transmitted to the person. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the amount of vibration transmitted from the forklift and the effect of different types of polyurethane foam in reducing the vibration transmitted from the forklift seat. METHODS: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 38 forklifts in 4 diesel models with the same weight class. The amount of vibration transmitted from forklift seats according …to ISO2631 standard, taking into account the effect of various factors such as foam type (hot and cold), thickness (6–12 cm), load and year Function was measured. The amount of vibration caused by the forklift on the seat and under the seat was evaluated using ISO7096 standard. RESULTS: The average total vibration of the whole body in all foams in no-load mode is more than with load. The transmission vibration of cold polyurethane foam is less than that of hot polyurethane foam. With increasing thickness, the efficiency of cold polyurethane foam increases by 12 cm and in the loaded state 40.63% and in the unloaded state 49.58% in reducing the vibration transmitted to drivers. CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that cold foam has better effectiveness and efficiency than hot polyurethane foam. Also, the thicker the foam, the less vibration is transmitted to the driver. Show more
Keywords: Whole body vibration, forklifts, driver’s seats, polyurethane foam, occupational exposure
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230421
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-9, 2024
Authors: Brandt, Mikkel | Bláfoss, Rúni | Jakobsen, Markus Due | Samani, Afshin | Ajslev, Jeppe Z.N. | Madeleine, Pascal | Andersen, Lars L.
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) located in the low back and neck/shoulder regions are major concerns for both workers, workplaces, and society. Masons are prone to WMSD, because their work is characterized by repetitive work and high physical workload. However, the knowledge on the physical workload during bricklaying is primarily based on subjective measurements. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional field study with technical measurements aimed to quantify physical workload in terms of muscular activity and degree of forward bending during bricklaying at different working heights among masons, i.e., knee, hip, shoulder, and above shoulder height. METHODS: …Twelve male (36.1±16.1 years) experienced masons participated in a cross-sectional field study with technical measurements. Surface electromyography from erector spinae longissimus and upper trapezius muscles and an inertial measurement unit-sensor placed on the upper back were used to assess the physical workload (level of muscle activation and degree of forward bending) different bricklaying heights. Manual video analysis was used to determine duration of work tasks, frequency, type, and working height. The working heights were categorized as ‘knee’, ‘hip’, ‘shoulder’, and ‘above shoulder’. The 95 percentiles of the normalized Root Mean Square (RMSn) values were extracted assess from erector spinae and trapezius recordings to assess strenuous level muscle of muscle activation. RESULTS: The RMSn of dominant erector spinae muscle increased from hip- to shoulder height (from 26.6 to 29.6, P < 0.0001), but not from hip to above shoulder height and decreased from hip to knee height (from 26.6 to 18.9, P < 0.0001). For the dominant trapezius muscle, the RMSn increased from hip- to shoulder- and above shoulder height (from 13.9 to 19.7 and 24.0, respectively, P < 0.0001) but decreased from hip- to knee height (from 13.9 to 11.5, P < 0.0001). Compared to hip height (27.9°), an increased forward bending was detected during bricklaying at knee height (34.5°, P < 0.0001) and a decreased degree of forward bending at shoulder- and above shoulder height (17.6° and 12.5°, P < 0.0001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Based on technical measurements, bricklaying at hip height showed the best compromise between muscular load and degree of forward bending. This study contributes to the development of the work environment for masons and can help guide preventive initiatives to reduce physical workload. Show more
Keywords: Bricklayers, electromyography, actigraphy, musculoskeletal diseases, ergonomics, building and construction
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230325
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-12, 2024
Authors: Yi, Cannan | Yang, Dan | Zhou, Shuyi | Li, Kai Way | Hu, Hong
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pushing is a typical workplace activity that may result in musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). A convenient method of assessing the risk of MSDs is to determine the association between the force applied and the subjective rating of force exertion. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the relationship between the subjective rating of force exertion and the force applied to both a fixed and a movable handle. It also aimed to confirm that the participants could apply a higher one-handed push force at shoulder height than at elbow height. METHODS: A one-handed pushing experiment was conducted. In …the push-to-scale session, the participants pushed a handle fixed on a rig on four levels on the CR-10 scale. The push force was measured. In the force-rating session, the participants rated their force exertions when pushing a movable handle with metal blocks suspended on the two sides. The subjective ratings on the CR-10 were recorded. RESULTS: The one-handed push force at shoulder height was significantly higher than that at elbow height. More effort was needed to push on a movable handle than a fixed one. Two regression models were established to describe the relationship between the push force and the subjective ratings of pushing for each of the fixed and movable handles, respectively. The correlation coefficient results showed that these models are adequate to describe the relationship between the one-handed push force and the ratings of the CR-10 scale. CONCLUSION: Participants applied a higher one-handed push force at shoulder height than at elbow height was confirmed. Participants needed more efforts to push the movable handle under the same CR-10 level than the fixed handle. The predictive models developed in this study may be used to estimate the push force for one-handed pushing tasks when assessing the risk of MSDs. Show more
Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, one-handed push force, subjective rating, push-to-scale, CR-10 scale
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230432
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-10, 2024
Authors: Júdice, Pedro B. | Silva, Hélio | Teno, Sabrina C. | Hetherington-Rauth, Megan
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged periods of sitting have been linked to negative health outcomes. Implementation of sit-stand desks in the workplace has been one strategy to reduce prolonged sitting. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of sit-stand workstations on reducing sitting time and improving other health outcomes of office-based workers. METHODS: 39 Portuguese office workers were randomized into a 6-month parallel-group cluster RCT consisting by the implementation of sit-stand desks in the workplace. The primary outcome of sitting time was assessed using ActivPAL. Secondary outcomes included biometric, psychological, and diet-related variables. All outcomes were assessed at …baseline and 6 months for the whole sample and at 3 months for a sub-sample of the intervention group (n = 11). RESULTS: No significant time*group interaction was found for the primary or secondary outcomes, apart from waist circumference favoring the control group (Δ –1.81 cm, pinteraction = 0.04). There were significant changes within the intervention group for sitting time (–44.0 min/day), prolonged sitting (>30 min) (–45.3 min/day) and standing time (51.7 min/day) at 3 months in the sub-sample and in prolonged sitting (>30 min) (–26 min/day) in the full intervention group (p < 0.05). Changes were also observed within the intervention group for percent body fat (Δ –3.7%) and ratings of quality of life (Δ 2.2), musculoskeletal discomfort (Δ –4.9), overall fatigue (Δ –2.2), and the need for recovery after work (Δ –1.7) at 6-month follow-up (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Although not being effective for reducing sitting time, the implementation of sit-stand desks in the Portuguese workspace was shown to be feasible over the long term, received well by users, and may offer other health benefits. TRIAL REGISTRATION: OSF Registration, OSF.IO/JHGPW. Registered 15 November 2022. https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/JHGPW. Show more
Keywords: Sitting time, sedentary behavior, contextual modification, ActivPAL, standing time
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230624
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-12, 2024
Authors: Vitale, Elsa | Mea, Rocco | Chang, Yun-Chen
Article Type: Research Article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Italy, cultural and professional nursing improvements are reached thanks to the university-based education which marks the clinical competency and the professional autonomy in nursing decision-making. OBJECTIVE: To highlight how Italian nurses perceived their nursing autonomy level in the main action-points highlighted in the Italian regulation law according to sex, age, work experience, education, shift and ward. METHODS: A cohort explorative study was carried out from September 2022 to January 2023 to highlight how Italian nurses perceived their nursing autonomy levels in the main action-points highlighted in the Italian regulation law for the nursing profession …according to demographic characteristics, like: gender, age, work of experience, education, shift, ward employment. RESULTS: A total of 403 nurses were enrolled. Significant differences were recorded in: decision-making authority in patient care and shift (p ≤0.001) and ward employment (p = 0.045); ability to initiate nursing interventions and education (p < 0.001) and ward employment (p = 0.011); collaboration and communication with healthcare team members and education (p < 0.001) and ward employment (p = 0.010); independence in clinical judgment and critical thinking and shift (p < 0.001); responsibility for the planning and evaluation of nursing care and education (p = 0.005) and shift (p = 0.002) and ward employment (p = 0.013); autonomy in professional development and continuing education and shift (p < 0.001) and ward employment (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results highlighted the intricate world both of the healthcare surrounding and the abilities to act autonomously within the multiprofessional staff. Future studies will develop qualitative and phenomenological designs in order to better define in which fields nurses will act their professional autonomy. Show more
Keywords: Age, nursing, professional autonomy, sex, shift work schedule, ward, work experience
DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230740
Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-8, 2024
IOS Press, Inc.
6751 Tepper Drive
Clifton, VA 20124
USA
Tel: +1 703 830 6300
Fax: +1 703 830 2300
[email protected]
For editorial issues, like the status of your submitted paper or proposals, write to [email protected]
IOS Press
Nieuwe Hemweg 6B
1013 BG Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 20 688 3355
Fax: +31 20 687 0091
[email protected]
For editorial issues, permissions, book requests, submissions and proceedings, contact the Amsterdam office [email protected]
Inspirees International (China Office)
Ciyunsi Beili 207(CapitaLand), Bld 1, 7-901
100025, Beijing
China
Free service line: 400 661 8717
Fax: +86 10 8446 7947
[email protected]
For editorial issues, like the status of your submitted paper or proposals, write to [email protected]
如果您在出版方面需要帮助或有任何建, 件至: [email protected]