bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of self-perceived physical and psycho-social worker	profiles of people with direct work injury, chronic low back pain, and	cumulative trauma
Authors: Cheng Joseph Chung-Keung , Li-Tsang Cecilia Wai-ping
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the psycho-social factors among injured workers and the influence of their psycho-social profile on the readiness of return to work. Sixty-four subjects with injuries on the upper limbs or lower limbs, low back pain, or cumulative trauma disorder were recruited. The workers' profiles (self-perceived physical health, mental health, and work readiness) together with the impact and types of work injury on the workers' perceived wellness were measured. The regression model of work readiness was constructed to develop a theoretical background for predicting work readiness based on different factors.

The results showed that injured workers with chronic injury such as low back pain or cumulative trauma had poorer self-perception of physical health and psycho-social/mental health compared to those with direct trauma. The regression analysis further affirmed that self-perceived pain and physical functioning were significant factors influencing the readiness for returning to work. Workers with low back pain were found to have lower motivation for returning to work. Other factors such as the non-verbal intelligence of the injured workers, their anxiety level, and the support they received from family members were found to have some indirect impact on their ability to return to work, but this was not statistically proven.
Factors affecting vocational outcomes of people with chronic	illness participating in a supported competitive open employment program in	Hong Kong
Authors: Lee Rosalia K.Y. , Chan Chetwyn C.H.
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the ability of the Patient Retraining and Vocational Resettlement (PRAVR) program to enhance the vocational outcomes of individuals with chronic illness, and to study the socio-demographic factors associated with successful vocational outcome.

Study design: A retrospective study of 548 individuals with various types of chronic illness who enrolled in the program between 1995 and 2003. Their socio-demographic data and their employment outcome after a six-month job skills retraining and job settlement service were collected for analysis.

Results: The program was found to enhance the vocational outcomes of patients who completed the program. Logistic regression identified significant factors predicting successful vocational outcomes. For the male patients, the chances of employment were higher if the onset of illness had occurred at least 10 years before (odd ratios = 0.326). For the female patients, the chances of employment were higher if they had been unemployed for less than 1 year (odd ratio = 3.8).

Conclusions: The PRAVR program is able to enhance the vocational outcomes of people with chronic illness in Hong Kong. The factors which were found to relate to successful employment were unique to the local situation. Further studies should explore these factors in a more in-depth manner.
Workplace discrimination and diabetes: The EEOC Americans with	Disabilities Act research project
Authors: McMahon Brian T. , West Steven L. , Mansouri Mehdi , Belongia Lisa
Published: December 2024

Using the Integrated Mission System of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the employment discrimination experience of Americans with diabetes is documented. Researchers compare and contrast the key dimensions of workplace discrimination involving Americans with diabetes and persons with other physical, sensory, and neurological 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 diabetes were more likely to encounter discrimination involving discharge, constructive discharge, discipline and suspension – all job retention issues. Persons with diabetes were less likely to encounter discrimination involving hiring, reasonable accommodation, non-pension benefits, and layoff. They were also more likely to encounter discrimination when they were older or from specific ethnic backgrounds, or when they worked for small employers or in the Southern United States. Implications for policy and advocacy are addressed.
Workplace discrimination and cumulative trauma disorders: The	national EEOC ADA research project
Authors: Armstrong Amy J. , McMahon Brian T. , West Steven L. , Lewis Allen
Published: December 2024

Employment discrimination of persons with cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) was explored using the Integrated Mission System dataset of the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Demographic characteristics and merit resolutions of the Charging Parties (persons with CTD) were compared to individuals experiencing other physical, sensory and neurological impairments. Factors compared also included industry designation, geographic region, and size of Respondents against which allegations were filed. Persons with CTD had proportionately greater allegations among large Respondents (greater than 500 workers) engaged in manufacturing, utilities, transportation, finance insurance and real estate. The types of discrimination Issues that were proportionately greater in the CTD group included layoff, failure to reinstate, and failure to provide reasonable accommodation. The CTD group was significantly less likely than the comparison group to be involved in discrimination Issues such as assignment to less desirable duty, shift or work location; demotion; termination, or failure to hire or provide training. Persons with CTD had higher proportions of merit Resolutions where allegations were voluntarily withdrawn by the Charging Party with benefits.
Workplace discrimination and disfigurement: The national EEOC ADA	research project
Authors: Tartaglia Alexander , McMahon Brian T. , West Steven L. , Belongia Lisa
Published: December 2024

Using the Integrated Mission System of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the employment discrimination experience of Americans with disfigurement is documented. Key dimensions of workplace discrimination involving Americans with disfigurement and persons with missing limbs are compared and contrasted. Specifically, the researchers examine demographic characteristics of Charging Parties; the industry designation, location and size of Respondents/employers; the discrimination Issue (i.e., type of adverse action) alleged to occur; and the legal outcome or Resolution of these allegations. Charging Parties with disfigurement who are female or between 30 and 39 years of age are more likely to encounter employment discrimination than their counterparts with missing limbs. Harassment and Non-wage Benefits are the Issues that emerge in higher proportion. Allegations derived from persons with disfigurement are more common in among mid-size employers, those located in the South, or those in Retail or Service industries. Following investigation, allegations derived from persons with disfigurement are less likely to have Merit Resolutions than those brought by Charging Parties with missing limbs.
Internal validity in rehabilitation research
Authors: Cook Lysandra , Rumrill, Jr. Phillip D.
Published: December 2024

In experimental research, internal validity is the extent to which the researcher can conclude that the manipulation of the independent variable caused change in the dependent variable. Without causal inference, researchers and research consumers would not be able to meaningfully interpret the results of experiments. This article discusses (a) threats to internal validity in rehabilitation research an (b) experimental procedures that can aid rehabilitation researchers in maximizing the internal validity of their investigations.
Fire-fighters' perspectives of the accuracy of the Physical	Aptitude Test (P.A.T) as a pre-employment assessment
Authors: Harley Anna , James Carole
Published: December 2024

Pre-employment assessments must accurately simulate job tasks and demands and select appropriate personnel to be considered effective. This study focussed on the perception of NSW fire-fighters in relation to the validity of the NSW Fire Brigade's pre-employment assessment, the Physical Aptitude Test. A qualitative method was used to gain a precise understanding of fire fighters' opinions of the accuracy of the Physical Aptitude Test. Information letters and consent forms were sent to an urban fire station with interested participants replying via the university. Six participants, who met the inclusion criteria were randomly selected for the study and in-depth, ethnographic, semi-structured interviews were conducted. The fire fighters believed in order for the Physical Aptitude Test to accurately simulate job demands and select the most capable fire fighters', it needed to be more physically demanding. However, participants believed that the "work-simulating" nature of the Physical Aptitude Test provided an accurate indication of the job tasks.
Workers' compensation for psychological injury: Demographic and	work-related correlates
Authors: Haines Janet , Williams Christopher L. , Carson Jacqueline
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to determine the demographic and work-related factors that contributed to the filing of a workers' compensation claim for psychological injury. Four groups of employees were compared: those who filed a workers' compensation claim, those who sought psychological treatment for occupational stress but did not file a workers' compensation claim, those who experienced elevated stress levels but did not seek help or lodge a claim, and those who experienced stressful events at work but did not develop symptomatology. The results indicated few variables that could adequately explain why some stressed employees opted for a workers' compensation claim. The implications of these results are discussed.
A controlled case study of supervisor training to optimize	response to injury in the food processing industry
Authors: Shaw William S. , Robertson Michelle M. , McLellan Robert K. , Verma Santosh , Pransky Glenn
Published: December 2024

The role of supervisors to aid injured workers, access health care, and provide reasonable accommodation may prevent prolonged disability among workers reporting musculoskeletal pain. Although supervisor training has been a common element of broad-based ergonomic interventions to prevent injuries, the impact of supervisor training alone to improve injury response has not been studied. In a controlled design, 11 supervisors in an intervention group and 12 supervisors in a delayed intervention control group from the same plant were provided a 4-hour training workshop. The workshop emphasized communication skills and ergonomic accommodation for workers reporting injuries or health concerns. Workers' compensation claims data in the 7 months before and after the workshop showed a 47% reduction in new claims and an 18% reduction in active lost-time claims versus 27% and 7%, respectively, in the control group. Improving the response of frontline supervisors to employees' work-related health and safety concerns may produce sustainable reductions in injury claims and disability costs.
Postural control in nurses with and without low back pain
Authors: Ratzon Navah Z. , Froom Paul
Published: December 2024

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is common in nurses, but it is unclear if the pain is associated with measurements of postural control. Objective measurements of function might be useful in the evaluation of patients with LBP in order to evaluate and predict disability, and in the study of the pathophysiology of chronic LBP.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study, we measured the number of postural adjustments, and degree of posterior-lateral sway in 81 nurses, using a computerized postural sway four-platter measurement system.

Results: There were 41 (56.6%) nurses who complained of LBP at the time of testing, and another 12 (14.8%) with a past history of LBP. Nurses with LBP consistently used more postural adjustments to keep their balance (p<0.003), and in some positions postural adjustments were positively associated with the degree of past and present pain. LBP was not significantly associated with the degree of lateral sway.

Conclusions: Nurses either with present or a past history of LBP use an increased number of postural adjustments to maintain balance. Studies are warranted to determine if postural testing can predict the development of LBP or aid in determining appropriate preventive measures.
Health-related determinants of perceived quality of life: A	comparison between first-year university students and their working peers
Authors: Vaez Marjan , de Leon Antonio Ponce , Laflamme Lucie
Published: December 2024

This study compares aspects of the health-related behaviors and working life of first-year university students with those of their working counterparts and assesses the roles of these aspects as predictors of each groups' perceived quality of life (QoL). Subjects were taken from two cross-sectional data sets (a student survey and a population survey) from the Swedish central-western region of Östergötland. Male and female respondents aged 20–35 years were extracted and comparison were made considering in turn socio-demographic characteristics, health-related behaviors, exposure to abusive events at work and perceived QoL. University students smoked and used oral snuff in smaller proportions, they were not as frequent drinkers as their working counterparts, but they tended to drink more when they did drink. Threats and violence were less prevalent among students, but sexual harassment, were almost as common. The strongest predictors of perceived QoL for both groups are expected and former perceived QoL, followed by current self-rated health.
Factors relevant to a return to work: A multivariate	approach
Authors: Hansen Annie , Edlund Curt , Henningsson Mikael
Published: December 2024

This paper contributes to the understanding of the factors that are significant for returning to work, and identifies factors that might be used early on in a period of sick leave to discern whether people are likely to work again. In the design, the multivariate Partial Least Squares (PLS) of Latent Structures method was used to analyse information from a questionnaire containing socio-demographic items, and information on symptoms, consequences on daily life, expectations and psychosocial factors. Data about the incidence of sickness over a four-year period was included. 121 adults aged 18–64 years on sick leave participated, irrespective of their diagnoses. A reliable prediction of a return to work required the combination of many factors: individual psychosocial instruments are not useful when considered in isolation.

The strongest predictive factors for a return to work concern the individuals' expectations, the number of days of sick leave taken in the past, somatic disorders, and a high level of life satisfaction and sense of coherence. Many factors influence the outcome for people on sick leave: PLS analysis demonstrated that a multivariate approach using this method could predict the long-term outcome early on in a period of sick leave.
How multiple interventions reduced injuries and costs in one	plant
Authors: DeWeese Curt
Published: December 2024

Preventing work place injuries requires more than ergonomically correct work stations. In 1999, flexible plastic packaging producer, Pliant Corporation of Macedon, NY, initiated the presence of an onsite Physical Therapist to further efforts in making work stations safe and to develop a comprehensive approach in preventing and managing worker injuries. The process started with analysis of the functional demands of the work performed, elimination of ergonomic stressors, and development of daily stretching programs for employees to perform. In the second and third year of the program, objective functional job descriptions and minimum strength criteria were created as well as work task specific post-offer pre-work screens. This comprehensive approach has reduced the total number of OSHA recordable injuries, reduced the overall incident rate and assisted in reducing turnover.
Test-retest reliability of a WRULD functional capacity evaluation	in healthy adults
Authors: Soer R. , Gerrits E.H.J. , Reneman M.F.
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to determine test-retest reliability of a Functional Capacity Evaluation for patients with non-specific Work Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULD FCE). The study sample included 33 healthy adults, consisting of 14 males and 19 females with a mean age of 29.2 years. The WRULD FCE consisted of 8 different tests including 26 items measuring repetitive movements, duration, working in awkward positions, forceful movements and static postures. Two FCE sessions were held with a 10-day interval. Means, 95% confidence intervals, one-way random Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICCs), 95% limits of agreement and repeated measures were calculated. An ICC between 0.75 and 0.90 was considered as good and an ICC above 0.90 was considered as an excellent reliability. The results showed that 14 of 26 items (54%) had excellent reliability, 9 of 26 items (35%) had good reliability and 3 of 26 items (11%) had moderate reliability based on ICC values. Significant learning effects were present in the Purdue Pegboard Task and in the Complete Minnesota Dexterity Test. It is concluded that the WRULD FCE is reliable in healthy adults.
The functional IME: A linkage of expertise across the disability	continuum
Authors: Clifton Jr. David W.
Published: December 2024

Disability assessment remains a significant challenge especially in welfare systems like workers' compensation and disability insurance. Many of today's managed care strategies do not impact on the seminal issue of return to gainful employment. Employers, insurers, attorneys and case managers routinely request independent medical examinations (IMEs) as a means of determining degree of disability, functional limitations, work restrictions and "estimated" physical capacities. However, this approach is limited because physicians are not trained in the functional model of disability assessment. IMEs address pathology and impairments which represent a portion of the disability continuum described by the World Health Organization, Nagi, Guccione and others [e.g. pathology-impairment-disability-handicap]. Functional capacity evaluations or FCEs are often performed by physical and occupational therapists who are trained in a function-based model of disability assessment. Unlike an IME physician who completes "Estimated Physical Capacities", therapists measure actual physical functioning. The value of both IMEs and FCEs can be enhanced through a "functional IME" that combines both models; medical-based examination and a function-based disability evaluation. This combination enhances the assessment of the relationship of pathology to impairment and impairment to disability status especially, in musculoskeletal disorders which tend to drive costs in workers' compensation.
Maximizing competence through professional development: Increasing	disability knowledge among One-Stop Career Center staff
Authors: Hall Allison Cohen , Timmons Allison Cohen , Boeltzig Heike , Hamner Doris , Fesko Sheila
Published: December 2024

The Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (USA) mandates that partners in the One-Stop Career Center system be prepared to serve a diverse customer base. Effective service delivery depends in part on a focus on human resources and professional development. This article presents innovative strategies for One-Stop Career Center staff training related to serving customers with disabilities. Findings from case study research conducted in several One-Stops across the country revealed that staff struggled with both knowledge and attitudes around disability issues. To address these concerns, local leaders developed practices that provided opportunities to gain practical skills and put acquired knowledge to use. These included a formalized curriculum focused on disability issues; informal support and consultation from a disability specialist; and exposure and learning through internships for students with disabilities. Implications are offered to stimulate thinking and creativity in local One-Stops regarding the most effective ways to facilitate staff learning and, in turn, improve services for customers with disabilities.
Effects of co-financed interdisciplinary teamwork on sick leave	for people with musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Hultberg Eva-Lisa , Lönnroth Knut , Allebeck Peter , Hensing Gunnel
Published: December 2024

Aims: The aim of the study was to assess if health care centres with a co-financing model for collaborative rehabilitation between primary health care, sickness insurance offices and social welfare offices reduced sick leave among persons with musculoskeletal disorders compared to health centres with conventional rehabilitation structures.

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. In addition, we collected register data about patients' allowances for sick leave days for totally 18 months.

Results: The intervention group had an average of 94 days and the controls 87 days on sick leave during the 12-months period after inclusion in the study. At 12 months the proportion of patients sick listed was 31% in the intervention group and 32% in the control group.

Conclusion: The study could not show that the co-financing model reduced the numbers of sick leave days among patients with musculoskeletal disorders. A possible explanation for the lack of positive impact on patients' health or work ability might be that the working procedure has in fact not really been changed and the tool mix lack solid evidence. The study identifies some methodological problems addressed in future research trying to link organisational changes with patient outcomes.
Reproducibility of a task description questionnaire for working	pregnant women
Authors: Cheng P.L. , Dumas G.A. , Smith J.T. , Leger A. , Plamondon A. , McGrath M.J. , Tranmer J.E.
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of a Task Description Questionnaire that was designed to investigate exposures to, and influential factors for, problematic tasks experienced by working pregnant women. The questionnaire comprised questions concerning 22 task components (covering working posture, manual material handling, work pace, prolonged postures and others), eight influential factors contributing to problematic tasks, discomfort (measured using a body map) and level of effort to perform the tasks. Reproducibility of the questionnaire was assessed by interviewing participants on two occasions one week apart for interviews at both 20 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. Eleven and 13 problematic tasks were reported by 21 working pregnant women at 20 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, respectively. These tasks were surveyed using the Task Description Questionnaire. Kappa statistics and correlation coefficients (supplemented by paired t-tests) were used to examine the reproducibility of responses to the questionnaire. The results showed that most of the variables were measured with very good or satisfactory reproducibility. The reproducibility of exposure to work posture was higher than that of exposure to manual material handling. There was no significant difference between test and retest means for the discomfort scores measured on the body map, except for the maximum discomfort score for the whole body in the 34 weeks survey. The study suggests that the questionnaire can be reliably used in the study of problematic tasks experienced by pregnant women. But an initial preview of the questions by the subjects and explanation of the questions given to the subjects by the interviewer may help to produce more reliable results.
Facilitators and barriers to employment among individuals with	psychiatric disabilities: A job coach perspective
Authors: Blitz Cynthia L. , Mechanic David
Published: December 2024

Unemployment rates remain high among individuals with psychiatric disabilities despite growing evidence that supported employment programs (SEPs) can help such individuals to obtain and retain competitive employment. A complete understanding of factors that may facilitate or hinder the success of such supported employment efforts is urgently needed to increase the efficacy of SEPs and move more individuals with psychiatric disabilities from welfare to work. This exploratory study provides insight into potential facilitators and barriers to employment among individuals with psychiatric disabilities from the perspective of job coaches. Twenty-eight job coaches from 14 SEPs in a Northeastern state reported on their experience with four recent clients, two who were successful in obtaining employment and two who failed, through a semi-structured mail survey. Findings suggest that job coaches use similar strategies to assist clients, but in each case try to tailor specific strategies to client's needs and characteristics. Factors that influence successful job placement and research and policy implications are discussed.
A study of the effects of isokinetic pre-employment physical	capability screening in the reduction of musculoskeletal disorders in a labor	intensive work environment
Authors: Rosenblum Keith E. , Shankar Arti
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This study investigated the effects of pre-employment physical ability screening using isokinetic dynamometry in injury development, specific to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the knees, shoulders and back among workers in physically demanding jobs.

Methods: New hires (n=503) from a large US employer's 105 industrial yards were screened to match the physical demands of their prospective jobs and tracked for up to 33 months. Results were compared to a control group of 1423 workers.

Results: There were significant reductions in the frequency and severity of musculoskeletal disorder injuries in the screened employee population. Non-screened applicants were 2.38 times more likely to experience a MSD-related overexertion injury specific to the knees, shoulders and back than screened hires (OR=2.3759; p=0.0001), and incurred 4.33 times higher cost of claims (p=0.0003). Covariates of age, pay type, race and job classification were markedly different between screened and unscreened hires. Among the screened cohort, only the more physically demanding job classifications were significant with field material handlers 7.1 times more likely to experience a non-MSD than less physically demanding workers (OR=7.1036; p=0.0063).

Conclusions: Objective isokinetic pre-employment screening may significantly reduce injuries in physically demanding jobs. Employees having been effectively matched to the physical demands of their jobs may be at significantly lesser risk of injury and disability from both musculoskeletal and non-musculoskeletal disorders.
Effect of a workplace design and training intervention on	individual performance, group effectiveness and collaboration: The role of	environmental control
Authors: Robertson Michelle M. , Huang Yueng-Hsiang
Published: December 2024

The effects of a workplace design and training intervention and the relationships between perceived satisfaction of office workplace design factors (layout and storage) and work performance measures (individual performance, group collaboration and effectiveness) were studied with 120 office workers using the Workplace Environment Questionnaire. Further, we examined whether environmental control had a direct effect on work performance, and then explored whether environmental control mediated or moderated the relationship between workplace design factors and work performance. Results showed a significant, positive impact of the intervention on environmental satisfaction for workstation layout. Satisfaction with workstation layout had a significant relationship with individual performance, group collaboration and effectiveness; and satisfaction with workstation storage had a significant relationship with individual performance and group collaboration. Environmental control had a direct impact on individual performance and group collaboration; whereas, the mediating and moderating effects of environmental control on the relationship between workplace design factors and outcome variables were not significant.
Work and health in Gnosjö: A longitudinal study
Authors: Bildt Carina , Backstig Lena , Hjelm Inga-Lill Andersson
Published: December 2024

This study includes women and men born between 1934 and 1953 in the municipality of Gnosjö in the south of Sweden and covers the period 1998 to 2001. Compared with the country, a large proportion of the population of the municipality of Gnosjö works in the manufacturing industry. The aim was to examine associations between physical and psychological stress factors in and outside work, sickness absence and cardiovascular and musculoskeletal diseases, from a gender perspective. Information about working conditions and other aspect of life was collected by a questionnaire in 1998, and register data about sickness absence, cardiovascular diseases and musculoskeletal diseases 1999–2001.

The impact on sickness absence consisted mainly of demand and control aspects of the psychosocial working conditions, but also temporary employment and of low sense of coherence. In relation to musculoskeletal health, demand and control was important among women, but not among men. Very few physical factors in the work environment were related to musculoskeletal diseases. Low sense of coherence had an impact also on musculoskeletal diseases. Cardiovascular diseases among women were influenced by demand and control and by life style related factors.

We hope that the knowledge gained from our study makes it possible to develop better tools for both the preventive work in Gnosjö and for the rehabilitation of the people already ill. Because of our holistic approach, both public health aspects and working life aspects are covered. The municipality of Gnosjö is small, and therefore foreseeable in a way that many municipalities are not. Still, we do believe that our finding, in this longitudinal study, can be of value also in the public efforts and the efforts to develop adequate and successful rehabilitation approaches.
Data entry workers perceptions and satisfaction response to the	"Stop and Stretch" software program
Authors: Trujillo Leonard , Zeng Xiaoming
Published: December 2024

Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD) is a collection of chronic musculoskeletal disorders caused by frequent, sustained, and repetitive movements, most notably by computer usage at the workplace. A computer based break reminder program (Stop and Stretch) has been developed and installed to prevent CTDs caused by prolonged computer usage at the workplace. We investigated users' opinions to the Stop and Stretch program at their work place. 19 computer users were recruited as the subjects of the study. We conducted a survey after all the subjects used the Stop and Stretch program for one month. Among the nineteen subjects, 52.5% or 10 noticed a difference of symptoms after using the program; 63.3% or 12 thought the program had positive effect on their productivity; 100% or all 19 thought the program was easy to follow; 100% or all 19 thought it was helpful; 94.7% or18 were satisfied with the program; and the same value would recommend the program to others. When grouped into those who had prior experience with using stretch and exercise as part of their work routine15 subjects had no prior experience; and 14 participants within that group were satisfied or very satisfied with the program; 93.3% or 14 would recommend it to co-workers; and over half of those 15 thought the program is easy to use. The study provided insight to the response to using "stretch break software" and provided indicators of satisfaction with the Stop and Stretch program and that the program had sufficient usability and acceptance within a workplace setting which might be applied in other work settings similar to these.
Participatory ergonomic processes to reduce musculoskeletal	disorders: Summary of a Québec experience
Authors: St-Vincent M. , Bellemare M. , Toulouse G. , Tellier C.
Published: December 2024

This article critically reviews 11 participatory ergonomic interventions carried out in Québec by the Occupational Health and Safety Research Institute (IRSST). In the introduction, the characteristics of the approach used are situated in relation to the literature on this subject. Based on the "Ergo team" formula, the approach aims to provide company personnel with the skills to analyze and correct hazardous workstations in relation to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), using an analysis process that the researchers developed. Although isolated workstations were corrected, the process aims for more general impacts on the company. In the 11 interventions, 40 work situations were analyzed, and in 31 cases, changes were implemented to reduce MSD risks. The most common changes dealt with the tools/equipment (77.4% and physical layouts (84%); changes involving work methods (29% and work organization (12.9%) were less common. The difficulties encountered in the interventions are summarized, and the possible impacts of the interventions on the organization and psychosocial factors are discussed. The authors then address the limitations of the paper and the factors that should be considered in evaluating such a participatory process. The authors conclude that the participatory process was successful in implementing changes in companies and that other studies are necessary for a better understanding of the process and its impacts.
Musculoskeletal symptoms in support staff in a large	telecommunication company
Authors: Fagarasanu Mircea , Kumar Shrawan
Published: December 2024

Primary objective: The primary objective of this study was to determine the extent and severity of the musculoskeletal problems in office workers in a telecommunication company.

Research design: A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders' symptoms, their perceived intensity and interaction with ability to work among office workers.

Methods and procedures: The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire and Cornell Hand Discomfort Questionnaire developed by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Laboratory at Cornell University were used on a sample of 140 office workers in a telecommunication company.

Main outcomes and results: Discomfort/pain/ache at the wrist level was reported by 86.5% for the left side and 95.5% for the right side. Additionally, discomfort/pain/ache was reported by 77.5% of the sample for neck and 31% of the sample for the left and 50% for the right shoulder region. At the hand site, the area in the distal proximity of the wrist was the most affected site being indicated in 90% of cases for left side and 95% of cases for the right side.

Conclusions: An overview of problems associated with the body parts in office work may allow targeted prevention and intervention.
What is healthy work for women and men? – A case-control study of	gender- and sector-specific effects of psycho-social working conditions on	long-term sickness absence
Authors: Lidwall Ulrik , Marklund Staffan
Published: December 2024

The aim of the study was to investigate the relevance of the demand-control model and social support in predicting long-term sickness absence (LTSA). Identifying gender- and sector- (private vs. public) specific patterns was in focus. The study uses a cross-sectional design with a case and a control group. The cases are a sample of 2 327 long-term sick listed (>60 days) and the controls are a Swedish population-based sample of 2 063. Data on sickness absence were retrieved from the Swedish national social insurance registers. Data on health, working and living conditions were gathered through a self-administered questionnaire. The results show that employed women have a notably higher risk for LTSA than employed men. High-strain jobs increase the odds for LTSA among both women and men. Active jobs were also associated with LTSA among women. The study confirms the demand-control model (job strain hypothesis) and social support and their associations with LTSA. However, the job strain hypothesis is more evident in the private sector. Active jobs with high psychological demands and high decision latitude seem to be problematic for many women, especially in the private sector. Thus, the active learning hypothesis receives no support for women in the Swedish working population in general.
Lifestyle, harassment at work and self-assessed health of female	flight attendants, nurses and teachers
Authors: Gunnarsdottir Holmfridur K. , Sveinsdottir Herdis , Bernburg Jon Gunnar , Fridriksdottir Hildur , Tomasson Kristinn
Published: December 2024

Health-related lifestyle, harassment at work, and self-assessed health of female flight attendants in comparison to that of female nurses and female primary school teachers were surveyed. A higher proportion of flight attendants than nurses or teachers were smokers, 26% vs. 15% and 17% respectively; and consumed alcohol at least once a week, 40% vs. 21% and 16%. Repeated sexual harassment at work was more common among the flight attendants, 31% vs. 8% and 4%; whereas bullying, physical violence and threats were less prevalent among the flight attendants (12%) than among nurses (19%). Flight attendants were on average somewhat taller, but weighed on average less, 63.8 kg vs. 72.4 kg and 72.7 kg respectively. Repeated exposure to sexual harassment, bullying, violence and threats was related to less physical and psychological well-being in all the groups. Teachers scored on average significantly lower than did the flight attendants on general health and physical well-being, while nurses did not.
Overprotection and lowered expectations of persons with	disabilities: The unforeseen consequences
Authors: Sanders Karen Y.
Published: December 2024

Lowered expectations and overprotection of the individual with a disability can cause lowered self esteem which can result in a life time of underachievement and failure to reach their full potential. Both lowered expectations and overprotection are forms of discrimination. Internalization of discrimination causes the person with a disability to believe that they are less capable than a person without a disability. Parents and care providers of children with disabilities may overprotect the child to shield them from harm; however this can actually cause more damage. Successful parenting skills are required to help children and adolescents develop a positive self concept and high self esteem. Guidelines have been developed to assist parents, educators and other professionals regarding the effects of overprotection and lowered expectations.
Impairments and perceived competence in persons living with	HIV/AIDS
Authors: Anandan Navaraj , Braveman Brent , Kielhofner Gary , Forsyth Kirsty
Published: December 2024

Medical advances have transformed HIV/AIDS from a short-term terminal illness to a long-term chronic condition. Consequently, the disability experience of persons with HIV illness has shifted from issues related to physical well-being to those concerning performance of daily life activities and wider community participation. These changes have necessitated rehabilitation interventions for persons with HIV/AIDS to focus on issues related to enabling participation in all spheres of everyday activities. However, limited information is available on the impairments prevalent in the emergent population of people living with HIV/AIDS and on the impact of these impairments on the person's functional performance and participation in various occupations of daily living. The present study attempted to explore these issues as they are experienced by the emergent population of people living with HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the study was: (1) to explore occupational functioning across various activities, (2) to describe the various impairments prevalent in this population, and (3) to examine the impact of these impairments on the person's perceived occupational competence. Two instruments, the Sign and symptom checklist for persons with HIV disease and the Occupational Self-Assessment were administered to a sample of 35 individuals (Mean age=42.8 yrs.) living in supportive living facilities. Impairments most commonly identified by the participants included: fatigue; fear/worries; difficulty concentrating; muscle aches; and depression. The two primary areas of occupational functioning where participants reported experiencing moderate to severe difficulty included: managing finances and physically engaging in activities which were reported by 67.7% and 35.5% of the participants respectively. No statistically significant correlation was observed between various measures of impairments and the overall measure of perceived occupational competence for the sample of individuals living with HIV/AIDS included in this study.
Interdisciplinary staff perceptions of an occupational therapy	return to work program for people living with AIDS
Authors: Bowyer Patricia , Kielhofner Gary , Braveman Brent
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify the perception of interdisciplinary staff members regarding the impact of a model work and independent living oriented program for residents in supportive living facilities. This study used focus groups and individual interviews to collect these perceptions. Staff members identified four areas of impact: utilization of a holistic and process-oriented approach, an ability to identify and work with the strengths of clients, emphasis on the learning of practical skills, and creating an intersection for all aspects of services. These findings point to the fact that staff members found the value that occupational therapy has to offer their overall programming by improving participation of clients with HIV in learning practical skills for use in their daily lives and in developing work related skills.
HIV/AIDS and return to work: A literature review one-decade	post-introduction of combination therapy (HAART)
Authors: Braveman Brent , Levin Mara , Kielhofner Gary , Finlayson Marcia
Published: December 2024

It has been a little over one decade since the introduction of the first protease inhibitor that ushered in new era of treatment for persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune-Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). As of the end of 2003, an estimated 37.8 million people worldwide were infected with the HIV. It is estimated that there are 850,000–950,000 persons in the United States living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and that the incident rate is new cases each year. Since AIDS affects so many people of working age in the US, issues of employment, work rehabilitation and AIDS in the workplace have all become major concerns. The paper presents a review of the literature published during a ten year period that is relevant to understanding the various needs and barriers related to work as well as services designed to address them.
Assistive technology and employment: Experiences of Californians	with disabilities
Authors: Yeager Patricia , Kaye H. Stephen , Reed Myisha , Doe Tanis M.
Published: December 2024

For people with disabilities, work remains the best route to independence and enacting one's own choices. Assistive technology (AT) is often crucial in removing barriers to employment, and in enabling workers with disabilities to work more productively. A participatory action research project known as Community Research for Assistive Technology surveyed people with disabilities using Independent Living Centers throughout California, in part to identify barriers to employment and study use of job-related AT to overcome such barriers. Across disability groups, disability itself was cited as the primary barrier to employment, with potential loss of benefits and lack of education cited as secondary barriers. A majority of working respondents reported using assistive technology (such as adapted telephones, wheelchairs, magnifiers, and adapted computer equipment) or services to perform job functions. The vast majority of those using job-related AT reported substantial benefits to their productivity and self-esteem. Employees' requests for AT as a workplace accommodation were granted more often than not, but many other employees had to pay for their own workplace AT.
A framework for providing telecommuting as a reasonable	accommodation: Some considerations on a comparative case study
Authors: Kaplan Shelley , Weiss Sally , Moon Nathan W. , Baker Paul
Published: December 2024

Telecommuting, whether full time, part time, or over short periods when the need arises, can be an important accommodation for employees with disabilities. Indeed, telecommuting may be the only form of accommodation that offers employees whose disabilities fluctuate a means to stay consistently and gainfully employed. This article describes one employer's experience in considering a request for telecommuting as a reasonable accommodation for a particular employee. Drawing on real-life examples, both positive and negative, this article provides a win/win framework for decision-making that can help employers evaluate the use of telecommuting as a possible accommodation and facilitates open and ongoing communication between employer and employee.
Individuals with disabilities perceptions on preparedness for the	workforce and factors that limit employment
Authors: Schmidt Mary Agnes , Smith Diane L.
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This research sought to identify the perceptions of individuals with disabilities regarding employment, how prepared they felt for the workforce, and what the limiting factors that affected employment were.

Methods: Students from a local center for independent living's College for Living classes completed 60 surveys containing yes-no and Likert scale questions during their regularly scheduled class time.

Results: Sixty-seven percent of individuals would like to attend a course to improve their skills. 82% of individuals who had participated in employment programs felt they had the necessary skills to work while 35.3% of those who did not attend employment programs felt they had the necessary skills. Transportation and disability status were the mostly frequently mentioned limiting factors to employment.

Conclusions: Generally, individuals who had either participated in an employment program were less likely to report barriers to their participation in employment than those who had never attended an employment program.
Effects of at-work exercises on computer operators
Authors: Kietrys David M. , Galper Jill S. , Verno Vincent
Published: December 2024

At-work exercises are commonly recommended for computer operators. This randomized control trial assessed adherence, pain and satisfaction after 4 weeks of at-work exercise. Subjects (n=72) were randomized into 3 groups: resistance exercise, stretching, and control. Outcomes included a satisfaction survey, a visual analogue pain scale (VAS), a pain drawing, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI). The VAS, the drawing, and NDI were analyzed together as a composite variate referred to as Pain Impact. Exercise frequency was similar across the 3 groups (median=1.5 times per day). No differences were found between groups on Pain Impact p=0.714) or individual pain variables. Most satisfaction survey item scores did not differ between groups. However, a significant difference between groups on the survey item related to discomfort. The resistance and stretching group differed from the control group with regard to their perception that the exercises were helpful in reducing discomfort in the back and neck (p<0.001). We conclude that most subjects found the resistance and the stretching exercises easy to do, performed them 1 to 2 times daily, and said they reduced discomfort. To determine optimal type and frequency of at-work exercises, further study is needed.