bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sickness absence with low-back, shoulder, or neck diagnoses: An	11-year follow-up regarding gender differences in sickness absence and	disability pension
Authors: Alexanderson Kristina A.E. , Borg Karin E. , Hensing Gunnel K.E.
Published: December 2024

Background: There is very little knowledge on the long-term outcomes of sickness absence. The aim was to investigate sickness absence and disability pensions over 11 years in a cohort of young persons initially long-term sick listed with back, neck, or shoulder diagnoses.

Method: A prospective population-based cohort study of all 213 individuals in the Municipality of Linköping, Sweden, who in 1985 were aged 25–34 and had at least one new sick-leave spell > 28 days with such diagnoses.

Main results: More women (61%) than men fulfilled the inclusion criteria. In 1996, 22% of the cohort (14% of the men, 26% of the women) had been granted disability pension; 76% of these individuals with musculoskeletal and the rest with psychiatric diagnoses. Partial disability pension was granted to 59% of the women, 17% of the men. Women were more often granted temporary disability pension than men.

Conclusions: This proved to be a high-risk group for disability pension. There were large and somewhat unexpected gender differences regarding incidence and type of disability pension. It has been debated how soon physicians should be concerned about the risk of long-term disability regarding these diagnoses; at four or eight weeks of sickness absence – our results support the former, at least for women.
Work and mental health: The experience of the Quebec workforce	between 1987 and 1998
Authors: Marchand Alain , Durand Pierre , Demers Andrée
Published: December 2024

This study examines the distribution of psychological distress in twelve occupational groups over the decade 1987–1998 in the Quebec workforce. Cross-sectional data from the three phases of the Quebec Health and Social Survey are used with n = 9,450 in 1987, n = 10,947 in 1992 and n = 10,960 in 1998, totalling 31,357 workers aged 15 and over. Occupations are classified according to the Canadian Socio-economic Classification of Occupations. Prevalence estimates for occupational groups are computed and logistic regression analyses are conducted controlling for gender, age and marital status.

The results show that the prevalence of workers with psychological distress increased sharply between 1987 and 1992 and declined back in 1998 but still increased compared to 1987. However, only non-qualified white collars, semi-qualified blue collars and male non-qualified blue collars show a significant increment in psychological distress over time. Analysis of the differentials in the prevalence of psychological distress gives greater odds of distress for supervisors, semi-qualified white and blue collar workers compared to upper managers. The odds for occupations are stable over time, gender, age and marital status. The odds of female workers significantly decreased in the three phases. It appears that the restructuring of the work environment and the perturbations in the larger society promoted an increase of psychological distress within definite segments of the workforce. The specific contribution of occupation is limited but supervisors and occupations requiring lower qualifications are more at risk regarding mental health at work.
Professional guidelines in occupational health and	ergonomics
Authors: Larson Barbara , Miller Margot
Published: December 2024

The disciplines of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy both play an important role in providing services in the area of Occupational Health and Ergonomics. This article will explore Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy professional guidelines in these two areas. For purposes of this article, Occupational Health and Ergonomic guidelines affecting therapists in Australia, The Netherlands, Canada and the United States will be discussed. The article will illustrate how the Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy organizations of several countries not only have existing Occupational Health and Ergonomic guidelines, position statements or like documents, but are also partnering with other organizations to make an impact on healthy workers and work environments. The information provided is not meant to be all-inclusive, but provide a look into professional responses to these expanding areas of practice.
Significant resources needed for return to work after sick	leave
Authors: Hansen Annie , Edlund Curt , Bränholm Inga-Britt
Published: December 2024

There are increasing numbers of people on long-term sick leave, especially with stress-related ill health and musculoskeletal disorders. The main purpose of this study is to, early on in the sick leave, find predictors of individual resources for a return to work. The study group consists of women and men on sick leave compared with reference groups of healthy persons. A questionnaire was used regarding diagnosis given on the doctor's certificate, self-reported symptoms, residential area, education, and kind of work. It also contained open questions about consequences in daily life and beliefs about future. Checklists concerning life satisfaction, sense of coherence, locus of control, coping resources and sick leave information over a four-year period have been used. Significant differences between the study group and the reference groups were found, relating to sense of coherence, locus of control, life satisfaction and coping resources. More than half of the study group were still on sick leave at a two-year follow-up. Important predictive factors turned out to be: previous sick leave, own belief about future and self-reported symptoms.
The impact of school furniture on fourth grade children's on-task	and sitting behavior in the classroom: A pilot study
Authors: Wingrat Jennifer K. , Exner Charlotte E.
Published: December 2024

Schoolchildren spend much of their day sitting in classroom furniture that is often too large or too small. To assess the impact of the size and fit of school furniture on the sitting and task behaviors of schoolchildren, 63 fourth-graders were observed while seated in 2 different sizes, types, and arrangements of furniture in their classroom. A correlated group design was used to compare the sitting and task behaviors of the students while seated in their traditional classroom furniture consisting of tables and chairs, and while sitting in smaller, appropriately sized desks and chairs, arranged in clusters and then in rows. The results indicate that the children sat better and were on task more when seated in the smaller furniture, as indicated by a significant main effect for condition, F = 51.478 (4, 330), p<0.05. There was no difference in sitting and task behaviors with the new furniture arranged in clusters compared to rows. Girls showed a slightly greater improvement compared to boys, and there was a significant correlation between better sitting positions and being on-task (r = 0.549, p<0.01). These findings indicate that students would likely benefit from sitting in smaller furniture that fits their size better.
Development and pilot trial of a web-based job placement	information network
Authors: Chan Eliza W.C. , Tam S.F.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this project was to develop and pilot a web-based job placement information network aiming at enhancing the work trial and job placement opportunities of people with disabilities (PWD). Efficient uses of information technology in vocational rehabilitation were suggested to help improve PWD employment opportunities and thus enable them to contribute as responsible citizens to the society. In this preliminary study, a web-based employer network was so developed to explore Hong Kong employers' needs and intentions in employing PWD. The results indicated that Hong Kong employers generally agreed to arrange work trials for PWD whose work abilities match job requirements. They also expressed that they would offer permanent job placements to those PWD who showed satisfactory performance in work trials. The present study evidenced that using an information network could expedite communications between employers and job placement services, and thus job placement service outcomes. It is hoped that a job placement databank could thus be developed through accumulating responses from potential employers.
Workplace discrimination and missing limbs: The national EEOC ADA	research project
Authors: West Steven L. , McMahon Brian T. , Monasterio Eugenio , Belongia Lisa , Kramer Kelley
Published: December 2024

Using the Integrated Mission System of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the employment discrimination experience of Americans with missing limbs is documented. Researchers compare and contrast the key dimensions of workplace discrimination involving Americans with missing limbs and persons with back and other non-paralytic orthopedic impairments. Specifically, the researchers examine demographic characteristics of the charging parties; the industry designation, location, and size of employers against whom complaints are filed; the nature of discrimination (i.e., type of adverse action) alleged to occur; and the legal outcome or resolution of these complaints. Findings indicate that persons with missing limbs were more likely to encounter discrimination if they were male, under 20 or over 65 years of age, and White or Native American. They were also more likely to encounter more frequent discrimination when they worked for employers in the Southern United States, those with 200 or fewer employers, or whose industry designation involved manufacturing, construction, or transportation. Finally, the nature of job discrimination experienced by Americans with missing limbs is more likely to involve hiring, promotion, or job training than other issues. Implications for policy and advocacy are addressed.
Factors affecting the organizational responses of employers to	workers with injuries
Authors: Huang Yueng-Hsiang , Pransky Glenn S. , Shaw William S. , Benjamin Katy L. , Savageau Judith A.
Published: December 2024

The organizational responses of employers to work-related injuries is one of several significant influences on return-to-work outcomes. Thus, understanding the factors that lead to better or worse organizational responses to work injuries may ultimately help to improve success in this area. The purpose of this study was to systematically explore factors that might influence the organizational responses of employers to injured workers, based on employee perceptions. Cross-sectional survey data were collected from 2,943 subjects with work-related injuries which had occurred less than eight weeks prior to survey completion. Measured variables included pre-injury demographic and job factors, injury circumstances, and a measure of post-injury events that comprised the organizational response. Multivariate linear regression results show that age, gender, job dissatisfaction before injury, prior difficulty performing job tasks, injury severity, back injury and lost time were all associated with negative organizational responses, suggesting potential opportunities for intervention.
Reliability of the instrument DOA: Dialogue about ability related	to work
Authors: Norrby Eva , Linddahl Iréne
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the reliability of the new instrument DOA – A dialogue about ability related to work [6]. DOA was developed using the Model of Human of Occupation as a theoretical base [12,13]. The instrument is divided into two sections; client self-assessment and professional assessment focusing on the individual's ability to perform work-related activities. Assessments are followed by a dialogue to distinguish goals for the return-to-work process based on the client's own preferences [6,14]. 34 outpatients' clients and 14 professionals from four clinics within psychiatric work rehabilitation in Sweden participated in the study. The Spearman Rank Correlation test generally showed acceptable significant correlations in test-retest (n=34). A greater part of items correlated "moderate to good" (r=0.51–0.75). In the raters' test (n=14) Percentage of agreement (PA) was good ranging between 93.1%–96.5%, which is above the acceptable criteria of 80%. There were no significance differences between the raters. The study has indicated that items in DOA work with generally good reliability to measure ability related to work. The instrument was demonstrated to be a reliable therapeutic tool in goal setting for return-to-work in a position outside of the clients' preferences.
Conditions that influence the elimination of postural constraints	after office employees working with VDU have received ergonomics training
Authors: Montreuil Sylvie , Laflamme Lucie , Brisson Chantal , Teiger Catherine
Published: December 2024

Objective: The goal of this article is to better understand how preventive measures are undertaken after training. It examines how certain variables, such as musculoskeletal pain, participant age and workstation and work content characteristics influence the reduction of postural constraints after office employees working with a computer have received ergonomics training.

Methods: A pre-test/post-test design was used. The 207 female office workers were given 6 hours of ergonomics training. The variables were determined using a self-administered questionnaire and an observation grid filled out 2 weeks before and 6 months after the training session. The FAC and HAC were used in the data processing.

Results: The presence or absence of musculoskeletal pain had no statistically significant influence on whether or not postural constraints were eliminated. The age of the participants and the possibility of adjusting the workstation characteristics and work content produced differentiated results with regard to postural constraint reduction. We concluded that trained people succeed in taking relevant and effective measures to reduce the postural constraints found in VDUs. However other measures than work station adjustments lead to this prevention and such training must be strongly supported by the various hierarchical levels of an enterprise or an institution.
Occupational health systematic reviews: An overview
Authors: Schonstein Eva , Verbeek Jos H.
Published: December 2024

Systematic reviews have been described by leaders in the field of evidence-based practice as the most powerful and useful evidence available to guide practice. This paper gives a description and analysis of systematic reviews currently included in the Cochrane Database for Systematic Reviews which have been identified by newly formed Cochrane Occupational Health Field as having an occupational health focus.
Work-related factors contributing to chronic disability in low	back pain
Authors: Soucy Isabelle , Truchon Manon , Côté Denis
Published: December 2024

Low back pain is a costly and incapacitating musculoskeletal disorder. Prospective studies documenting the capacity of work-related factors to predict chronicity are few in number, the methodology used is very diversified, and the results obtained diverge. The aim of the present study is to investigate the capacity of work-related objective (non-psychosocial) and psychosocial factors to predict chronic disability related to low back pain. A longitudinal prospective study with two measurement times was carried out. The sample (N=258) consisted of workers with subacute low back pain who were on sick leave and receiving compensation from the CSST (Quebec Workers' Compensation Board). Of all the work-related variables measured, perceived stress and fears and beliefs about work were associated with return to work status at the six-month follow-up. The results obtained show the importance of considering fears and beliefs about work when identifying people in the subacute phase of low back pain who are at risk of developing chronic disability.
Assessment of Work Performance (AWP) – development of an	instrument
Authors: Sandqvist Jan L. , Törnquist Kristina B. , Henriksson Chris M.
Published: December 2024

Adequate work assessments are a matter of importance both for individuals and society [5,29,31,38,40,46,52]. However, there is a lack of adequate and reliable instruments for use in work rehabilitation [14,15,20,21,31,44]. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate an observation instrument for assessing work performance, the AWP (Assessment of Work Performance). The purpose of the 14-item instrument is to assess the individual's observable working skills in three different areas: motor skills, process skills, and communication and interaction skills. This article describes the development and results of preliminary testing of the AWP. The testing indicates a satisfactory face validity and utility for the AWP and supports further research and testing of the instrument.
Organisational factors, individual characteristics and social	support: What determines the level of social support?
Authors: Sundin L. , Bildt C. , Lisspers J. , Hochwälder J. , Setterlind S.
Published: December 2024

A large body of research has linked social support to health, but there are fewer studies that have focused on factors that influence the level of social support available and/or perceived by employees in different organisations. This cross-sectional study therefore investigated the relationship between on the one hand, organisational, individual and socio-demographic factors and on the other, the level of social support at the workplace, i.e., the degree of supervisor support and a supportive work atmosphere. Organisational variables (job demands, job control, job content), individual (self-esteem, mistrust) and socio-demographic variables (type of employer, occupational position, age, gender and educational level) were used as independent variables in the analyses. The sample consisted of 16,144 individuals at a variety of different organisations in Sweden, who had responded to a questionnaire covering different psychosocial and psychological stress factors ("the Stress Profile"). Multiple hierarchical regression analyses were performed separately for each of the two dependent variables, which yielded almost identical results, and indicated that organisational determinants, particularly perceived job control, had the largest impact on the degree of social support.
Target groups for prevention of neck/shoulder and low back	disorders: An exploratory cluster analysis of working and living	conditions
Authors: Leijon Ola , Härenstam Annika , Waldenström Kerstin , Alderling Magnus , Vingård Eva
Published: December 2024

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) have a multifactorial etiology. Therefore, a holistic approach to identifying target groups for primary/secondary prevention is essential. In this study, an exploratory person-oriented approach was applied, using cluster analysis of variables related to physical and psychosocial work conditions, and conditions in the private sphere, on a data set of 1,341 Swedish women and men who had not sought care for MSDs the 6 months preceding enrollment in the study. Three groups at risk and five "healthy" groups regarding MSDs were identified. Two of the risk groups had a strained situation regarding psychosocial work conditions or domestic/family conditions, respectively. The majority of individuals in these groups were women. The third risk group had a strained situation regarding both physical and psychosocial work conditions. This group consisted largely of men working in male-dominated jobs. The five healthy groups had low/moderate metabolic demands at work, and all of them having high proportions of subjects with moderate to high education, and fairly even distributions of men and women. In conclusion, the results indicate that gender-specific working and living conditions are associated with an increased risk for MSDs. The identification of these subgroups in the population may facilitate a selective prevention approach.
Workforce reentry for people with HIV/AIDS: Intervention effects	and predictors of success
Authors: Martin David J. , Arns Paul G. , Batterham Philip J. , Afifi Abdelmonem A. , Steckart M. Jillisa
Published: December 2024

Treatment that prolongs the lives of people with HIV/AIDS and improves their quality of life is relatively recent and little is known about factors that may predict their successful re-entry to the workforce. No data exist concerning the effectiveness of programs to assist people with HIV/AIDS in their efforts to return to work. We used logistic regression and Kaplan-Meier survival curves to predict return to work using data from 126 individuals who participated in an HIV/AIDS return to work program. Results from the 24 month follow-up revealed that program participation, general health, benefits status, and gender, predicted successful re-entry to the workforce. We discuss these findings in the context of the need for more explicitly-defined interventions, as well as the need for additional information on factors that may hinder or facilitate workforce re-entry among people with HIV/AIDS.
Assessment of workplace product accessibility: A human factors	perspective
Authors: Fain W. Bradley
Published: December 2024

This paper illustrates the advantages of using human factors evaluation techniques as a method of informing rehabilitation service provider decisions about client care and assistive technology selection. Successful integration of accessibility evaluation techniques can strengthen an evidence based service program and offer service providers another tool for providing efficient, effective, and rapid services to individuals in need. With accessibility evaluation data showing the functional abilities required to operate a given product or set of products, it is possible to empirically demonstrate that an individual has the potential to successfully utilize the provided workplace equipment. Conversely, if the accessibility evaluation data reveal that the functional capabilities required to use a product exceed the capabilities of a given user, it would be possible to demonstrate the need for particular interventions or accommodations. With accessibility evaluation data, service providers can make better informed decisions about client care.
Barriers to evidence based practice in accommodations for an aging	workforce
Authors: Head Lynzee , Baker Paul M.A. , Bagwell Brad , Moon Nathan W.
Published: December 2024

According to a recent Government Accountability Office report, the number of workers over age 55 is projected to increase significantly over the next twenty years, with this demographic group projected to comprise as much as twenty percent of the workforce by 2015 [12]. Accommodating the functional limitations of a large number of older workers may prove challenging for employers; however, policies and practices shaped over the course of the next few decades could allow aging workers to remain a valuable part of the US economy. Given these considerations, it is useful from a public policy perspective to determine the degree to which employers are currently addressing the accommodation needs of older workers. This paper presents the results of a study that attempted to determine the extent to which a sample of Fortune 500 employers was currently accommodating older workers. The study's methodology (in particular, its use of semi-structured telephone interviews) is reevaluated and new options (such as anonymous online employer surveys) are considered for the valid and reliable collection of data on accommodations for older workers.
Survey of state vocational rehabilitation counselor roles and	competencies in assistive technology
Authors: Noll Al , Owens Laura , Smith Roger O. , Schwanke Todd
Published: December 2024

The delivery of assistive technology (AT) within the state and federal vocational rehabilitation systems in the United States has been developing and refining itself over the last twenty years. Many challenges have been confronted in an attempt to use this relatively new service to increase the employment options and success for individuals with disabilities. In this process, the rehabilitation counselor serves as a critical player in the planning and delivery of AT as it articulates with other rehabilitation services. This study investigated counselor views regarding their role and competence in providing AT services and devices to individuals with disabilities throughout the state of Wisconsin. The results of the survey indicated, in general, that counselors find AT to be a cost-effective service that can increase employment related outcomes. As with other service areas, the counselors' role in AT service delivery involves coordinating, purchasing and following up on services. Interestingly, while counselors expressed confidence in performing these overall functions, they reported a lack of confidence in identifying the need for AT services. Without a comfort level to make this determination, benefits from the implementation of AT may be quite limited. Results suggest that intervention is needed to improve counselors' abilities to make decisions regarding AT services.
Educational background: Different processes and consequences on	health and physical and mental exposures among women and men
Authors: Dahlberg Raymond , Bildt Carina , Vingård Eva , Karlqvist Lena
Published: December 2024

Objective: To compare health and exposures at work and at home of women and men with the same educational background.

Methods: The study group consisted of 3831 individuals, grouped into three educational categories based on length of education. Category 1, which represents 9-year compulsory school; Category 2, which includes 3-year upper secondary school, i.e. in total 12 years of education; and Category 3, which includes post-secondary school, such as university. They responded to a questionnaire that included questions on health and exposures at work and at home.

Results: Significant differences were shown in health outcomes between women and men with the same educational background and also in exposures in their professional and private lives. Associations between educational background and health were found and analyses revealed that men with a university education run the lowest risk of developing ill health.

Conclusion: Women with the same educational background as men are differently exposed, both in paid and unpaid work, due to the segregated labour market and the unequal distribution of domestic duties. Men in all educational categories studied had better health compared to women with the same educational background.
Effects of a co-financed interdisciplinary collaboration model in	primary health care on service utilisation among patients with musculoskeletal	disorders
Authors: Hultberg Eva-Lisa , Lönnroth Knut , Allebeck Peter
Published: December 2024

Background: In 1994 Sweden introduced a trial legislation allowing co-financing between authorities. The legislation aimed to stimulate new ways of collaboration between health and social care providers. One of the specific objectives was to make management of patients with conditions requiring multidisciplinary care more efficient and reduce costs. This study aims to assess if there were any differences in management of patients with musculoskeletal disorders at health centres applying the trial legislation compared to health centre with conventional care with regards to health services utilisation, health care interventions received, and costs.

Method: A comparative prospective study was conducted. Consecutive patients aged 16–64 with musculoskeletal disorders attending the health care centres with (n=107) and without (n=31) co-financing model were interviewed at inclusion and after 6 and 12 months. Number of contacts with professionals and interventions received were registered.

Results: Patients at the intervention centres had significantly more contact with physiotherapists and physicians than the controls. Contacts with other services such as social insurance office, social services office or hospitals did not differ significantly between the groups. Costs were higher for the interventions centres.

Conclusion: The findings do not suggest that the trial legislation reduced health care utilisation or costs for patients with musculoskeletal disorders.
Reliability of the JobFit System Pre-Employment Functional	Assessment Tool
Authors: Legge Jennifer , Burgess-Limerick Robin
Published: December 2024

Functional capacity testing in the pre-employment or post-offer phase of recruitment is increasing in popularity as a preventative tool for controlling sprains and strains in the workplace. The purpose of this study is to determine the reliability of the JobFit System Pre-Employment Functional Assessment (PEFA) as a whole, or in parts, as a precursor for a validity study investigating the relationship between PEFA results and workplace injury rates and severity.

A group of 28 healthy male coal mine employees were videotaped whilst they participated in a generic JobFit System Pre-Employment Functional Assessment (PEFA) including tests of aerobic physical fitness, balance, postural tolerances and material handling tolerances. Twenty participants performed a second trial. The test component scores and overall PEFA scores were compared between trials (test-retest, intra-rater) and assessors (inter-rater) to determine their reliability expressed in terms of ICC. Using an ICC score of > 0.75 as good and > 0.90 as excellent, in conjunction with percentage agreement a good to excellent reliability rating was allocated to the overall PEFA score, floor to bench lift, bench to overhead lift, bilateral carry and climbing. A moderate to good rating was recorded for bench to shoulder lifts, reaching forward, reaching overhead and stooping. A poor to moderate rating was recorded for squatting, balance and fitness tests. Test-retest scores were typically lower than intra-tester and inter-tester scores. ICC scores should be interpreted with consideration of their limitations and in conjunction with the actual test results.
Work in unemployment – occupied or preoccupied? A review
Authors: Scanlan Justin Newton , Beltran Ruth O.
Published: December 2024

This review explores the literature on the concept of work in unemployment and its relationship to health. A range of literature about the activities of unemployed people is reviewed and discussed with reference to three questions: What do unemployed people do?, What activities are associated with the health of unemployed people? and Do unemployed people work? From the literature, two groups of unemployed people are described: those who are characterised by active patterns of activity and those characterised by passive patterns. It is argued that the active group is psychologically healthier than the passive group. Concepts of work in both groups of unemployed individuals are presented, arguing that the active group seeks to replace employment with other work activities and that the passive group are engaged in work also, but that this presents as fret and preoccupation about their situation. These concepts of work are presented in the context of three major theoretical models of the personal impact of unemployment. Finally, implications for practice and directions for future research are suggested.
Work resumption after vocational rehabilitation: A follow-up two	years after completed rehabilitation
Authors: Ahlgren Åsa , Bergroth Alf , Ekholm Jan , Schüldt Kristina
Published: December 2024

A short-term evaluation of vocational rehabilitation (VR) may give conclusions not automatically applicable over a longer term. The present study follows up alterations in work resumption or in social insurance benefits from the time of completed VR and during the following two years.

Aim: The primary objective was to evaluate work resumption among previous sick-leavers granted vocational rehabilitation. The aim of the follow-up was to assess the stability of the outcome of VR over time and to analyse factors of importance for clients that remained at work.

Method: A register investigation was based on 815 cases where the clients had taken part in vocational rehabilitation and were served by one of six local social insurance offices of a Swedish county.

Results: Of the clients studied, 52.4% had attained full working capacity The proportion had decreased to 37.4% two years later. One factor that differed between those who resumed work and those who returned to sick leave was the duration of the previous sick-leave period. Those who returned to work had had shorter sick leave, had jobs to return to and had received job training as a vocational rehabilitation measure.

Conclusions: The clients with the best chances of being in work two years after completed vocational rehabilitation were those with short sickness absence, who had been selected for job training as a vocational rehabilitation, were aged 16–29 years and were employed in industry.
Hard stories in the workplace
Authors: Konrad Shelley Cohen
Published: December 2024

Relationships between family caregivers and professional health care providers typically begin during an intensely painful and stressful time. This article examines the literature on professional attitude and response to suffering with particular emphasis on how exposure to hard stories affects the development and quality of alliances with family caregivers. First person accounts from a qualitative, phenomenological study conducted with mothers of children with acquired physical disabilities are used to illustrate the perspectives of caregivers and the qualities they identify as contributing to competent, meaningful, and mutual relationships that allow for bearing witness to hard stories.
The work ability web: A tool for job matching
Authors: Graham Margot S.
Published: December 2024

A rural community in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, requested assistance in finding a solution for the dilemma of unemployment for persons with disabilities (PWD). The researcher was involved in a multi disciplinary development programme in the community and investigated the possibilities of integrating the PWD in the income generating projects planned for the community at large.

This article reports on one of the objectives of this participatory research study: exploring possible ways of job placement in the projects by community workers. The challenge was to find a simplified process by which uncomplicated placements could be handled by community workers, and complex cases identified and referred to the regional occupational therapists.

The researcher used a functional assessment kit to assess the level of dependence/independence of each PWD as well as an interview on employment history and personal aspirations and needs. A job analysis was done on five planned projects for the community that would generate income. The data of the functional analysis of each person and the job requirements were then plotted on one web, the work ability web (WAW) to illustrate compatibility. One of the cases from the sample is described to demonstrate the process.
The Model of Creative Ability in vocational rehabilitation
Authors: Casteleijn Daleen , de Vos Helé
Published: December 2024

Occupational therapy literature has reported on the concept of motivation in great depth and it is evident that motivation has many constructs. Motivation is seen as a key indicator for success in rehabilitation. When assessing a client's vocational skills and performance, occupational therapists in South Africa have found the Model of Creative Ability to be a useful model to determine the quality and quantity of motivation.

This article briefly describes the development of the Model of Creative Ability in South Africa and explains the fundamental concepts and terminology used in the model. Criticism of the model as well as the reasons for the popularity of this model are given. A case study is used as an example to illustrate the unique contribution of the levels of motivation and action to a medico-legal report.
Employment after spinal cord injury: The impact of government	policies in Canada
Authors: Jongbloed Lyn , Backman Catherine , Forwell Susan J. , Carpenter Christine
Published: December 2024

The British Columbia Paraplegic Association (BCPA) sought a research partnership to evaluate where its activities should be focused. A survey of members with disabilities of the BCPA included questions on employment and identified three priorities related to employment. These were the need for assistance in finding appropriate work, the impact of policies of government and insurance agencies, and attitudes of employers. This paper examines the social and political environment related to employment following spinal cord injury in British Columbia, Canada. There is no coherent set of goals underlying government employment and income programs in Canada. Incremental development of particular employment and income programs during the 20th century led to a patchwork of policies and programs, which deal with people differently according to the cause of their disability. Federal and provincial governments have attempted to educate employers and reduce barriers to employment of those with disabilities by focusing on anti-discrimination legislation and individual rights (e.g. the Employment Equity Act and the Canadian Human Rights Act). However, people with disabilities face non-accommodating environments, inadequate income support, lack of opportunities and little political influence which stem from an unfair distribution of societal resources, not from discrimination. Joint efforts of the BCPA and other disability organizations are likely to have the most impact on legislative changes.
Health care risks and access within the community of Michigan	over-the-road truckers
Authors: Staško J.C. , Neale A.V.
Published: December 2024

This mixed methods study explored health care access problems faced by long-distance truck drivers. Thirty trucking professionals were interviewed at truck-stops in Michigan about health status and health care access. Thirty of the 88 drivers approached participated. The most common illnesses they reported concerned the eye, back, excessive stress at work and painful joints or arthritis. Most respondents had a family doctor; for those who did not, cost was a major contributing factor. More than one third stated their health is "not excellent" because of poor accessibility to healthcare on the road. Almost unanimously, drivers desired to have access to health care clinics in truck-stop areas and described particular access problems; the solution may be as simple as making the existing health care system more amenable to those driving large truck rigs.
The effects of workstation changes and behavioral interventions on	safe typing postures in an office
Authors: Gravina Nicole , Lindstrom-Hazel Debra , Austin John
Published: December 2024

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of an ergonomic and behavioral safety intervention for improving participants' safe typing postures in a library office setting. A single-subject multiple baseline design across five participants was employed to evaluate the effects of the four independent variables (workstation adjustment, equipment trial (rollermouse mouse alternative), peer observations, and graphic feedback). Six participant postures were observed repeatedly while participants worked at their workstations throughout the study. Each of the interventions resulted in improvements in safety for more than one posture compared to the previous phase. Results of the study indicate that a comprehensive ergonomic program that includes a workstation adjustment and a behavioral safety approach may be helpful to produce maximum improvements in employees' safe ergonomic postures.
Workplace discrimination and cancer
Authors: McKenna Maureen A. , Fabian Ellen , Hurley Jessica E. , McMahon Brian T. , West Steven L.
Published: December 2024

Data from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Integrated Mission System database were analyzed with specific reference to allegations of workplace discrimination filed by individuals with cancer under ADA Title One. These 6,832 allegations, filed between July 27, 1992 and September 30, 2003, were compared to 167,798 allegations from a general disability population on the following dimensions: type of workplace discrimination; demographic characteristics of the charging parties (CPs); the industry designation, location, and size of employers; and the outcome or resolution of EEOC investigations. Results showed allegations derived from CPs with cancer were more likely than those in the general disability population to include issues involving discharge, terms and conditions of employment, lay-off, wages, and demotion. Compared to the general disability group, CPs with cancer were more likely to be female, older, and White. Allegations derived from CPs with cancer were also more likely to be filed against smaller employers (15–100 workers) or those in service industries. Finally, the resolution of allegations by CPs with cancer were more likely to be meritorious than those filed from the general disability population; that is, actual discrimination is more likely to have occurred.
Long-term effects of forearm support: Computer users working at	conventional desks
Authors: Cook Catherine , Downes Lisa , Bowman Julia
Published: December 2024

Recent research has demonstrated that forearm support might be preferable to working in the traditional "floating" posture for computer users. A previous field study in a call centre reported a significant decrease in discomfort following 12 weeks of using a conventional desk for forearm support [8]. The aim of this follow up study was to determine the long-term effect (21 months post intervention) of forearm support on reported musculoskeletal discomfort in the previous sample of intensive computer users.

Methods: The follow-up sample consisted of 33 females and 2 males (59% of original group). Data were collected via self-report questionnaires and workstation assessments.

Results: Despite a significant reduction in discomfort for most body regions following the initial intervention, the only significant decrease in discomfort over 21 months was for the neck. Reported discomfort for all other body regions had decreased, apart from the shoulder in which there was a reported increase in discomfort.

The results of this follow up study indicate that forearm support has a positive effect on the reduction of neck discomfort. The increase in shoulder discomfort indicates that a concave desk may be preferable to the conventional desk if the forearm support posture is to be adopted.
Activity and sleeping time monitored by an accelerometer in	rotating shift workers
Authors: Kawada Tomoyuki , Shimizu Takako , Fujii Atsunaru , Kuratomi Yushiro , Suto Sachiko , Kanai Tomoe , Nishime Akemi , Sato Kyoko , Otsuka Yasue
Published: December 2024

Background: The relationship between total sleep time and activity levels during work before or after sleep in two rotating work shifts was compared.

Method: Monitoring of activity levels using an activity-detecting device in the wrist was conducted in 17 rotating shift workers, who ranged in age from 34 to 55 years. The work shifts, consisting of a morning shift (6:30 to 15:15 hours) and an evening shift (15:15 to 24:00 hours), were rotated on a weekly basis. Partial correlation coefficient was calculated after controlling for age.

Results: The total sleep time after the morning shift was significantly related to the activity count before sleep (r=−0.42) or after sleep (r=−0.36). There was also a significant relationship between total sleep time after the evening shift and the activity count before sleep (r=−0.39) or after sleep (r=−0.32). The mean total sleep time of the subjects for the morning shift was 349 minutes, which was significantly lower than that after the evening shift (382 minutes). In addition, the activity count during the morning shift was significantly higher than that during the evening shift.

Conclusions: The negative relationship between sleep time and activity before or after sleep became clear in shift workers.
I'm going back to work: Back injured clients' perceptions and	experiences of their worker roles
Authors: Soeker Mogammad Shaheed , Wegner Lisa , Pretorius Blanche
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to elicit perceptions and experiences of facilitators and barriers that affected individuals who received back rehabilitation and their ability to resume their worker roles. Qualitative research methods were used in order to explore the research question. Participants were selected by means of simple random sampling and the data were collected by means of semi-structured focus groups. Some factors that were seen as facilitatory in maintaining the worker role of an individual who received back rehabilitation included injury management strategies, a positive work culture and having meaningful/satisfactory work experiences. Factors or barriers that prevented individuals from resuming their worker roles included physical and psychosocial stressors of the job, a lack of education by the employer and inadequate workplace policy. The results indicated that occupational therapists need to reassess their role within the wider context of the helping professions where they should become more involved in on-the-job evaluations, work placements and training of individuals who received back rehabilitation.
Musculoskeletal symptoms in relation to work exposures at call	centre companies in Sweden
Authors: Norman Kerstin , Floderus Birgitta , Hagman Maud , Toomingas Allan , Tornqvist Ewa Wigaeus
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Call centres (CCs) are one of the most rapidly growing types of workplaces in Sweden. The purpose of the study was to assess associations between exposures at CC work and symptoms in the Neck/shoulders and Arm/hand. Comparisons were made between internal and external CCs. An internal CC is a department or separate unit within a larger company with another main core business, while an external CC is a free-standing company.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of a selected sample of CCs was conducted. A questionnaire, covering characteristics of work and management, physical and psychosocial exposures and symptoms during the last month, was answered by 1183 operators from 28 CCs.

Results: Three out of four operators reported pain or aches in one or more of the requested body regions, with no major difference between internal and external CC operators. Comfort of the work environment, showed the strongest association with symptoms in the Neck/shoulder and Arm/hand, in both types of CCs. Other exposures associated with symptoms in the Neck/shoulder or Arm/hand in either type of CC were: low complexity of work, long total time of customer calls per day, continuous computer work without a break, high psychological demands, low decision latitude, lack of social support from colleagues and supervisor.

Conclusions: The study is unique in that there are no previous studies focusing on a large variety of exposures specific to CC work, based on a large number of workers from different types of CCs. The study confirms previously suggested associations between unfavourable work characteristics and management, a poor physical and psychosocial environment, and musculoskeletal symptoms in computer-telephone interactive tasks. The nature of calls during work were related to symptoms of persons working in internal CCs, whereas the time spent seated and continuous computer work were related to symptoms of those in external CCs.