International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

2024

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17 pages, 805 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Work Ability Index (WAI) in the Healthcare Sector: A Cross-Sectional/Retrospective Assessment of the Questionnaire

by Nicola Magnavita, Igor Meraglia, Giacomo Viti and Lorenzo Borghese

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030349 - 15 Mar 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2735

Abstract

The Work Ability Index (WAI) is the most widely used questionnaire for the self-assessment of working ability. Because of its different applications, shorter versions, and widespread use in healthcare activities, assessing its characteristics is worthwhile. The WAI was distributed online among the employees [...] Read more.

The Work Ability Index (WAI) is the most widely used questionnaire for the self-assessment of working ability. Because of its different applications, shorter versions, and widespread use in healthcare activities, assessing its characteristics is worthwhile. The WAI was distributed online among the employees of a healthcare company; the results were compared with data contained in the employees’ personal health records and with absence registers. A total of 340 out of 575 workers (59.1%) participated; 6.5% of them reported poor work ability. Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the one-factor version best described the characteristics of the WAI. The scores of the complete WAI, the shorter form without the list of diseases, and the minimal one-item version (WAS) had equal distribution and were significantly correlated. The WAI score was inversely related to age and significantly lower in women than in men, but it was higher in night workers than in their day shift counterparts due to the probable effect of selective factors. The WAI score was also correlated with absenteeism, but no differences were found between males and females in the average number of absences, suggesting that cultural or emotional factors influence the self-rating of the WAI. Workers tended to over-report illnesses in the online survey compared to data collected during occupational health checks. Musculoskeletal disorders were the most frequently reported illnesses (53%). Psychiatric illnesses affected 21% of workers and had the greatest impact on work ability. Multilevel ergonomic and human factor intervention seems to be needed to recover the working capacity of healthcare workers. Full article

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2022

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15 pages, 1378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Safety Performance of Construction Workers through Individual Perception and Organizational Collectivity: A Contrastive Research between Mainland China and Hong Kong

by Xiangcheng Meng and Alan H. S. Chan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14599; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114599 - 7 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2401

Abstract

Considering the increasing number in construction accidents in Mainland China and Hong Kong, research on improving the safety performance of construction personnel is important, given the essential role it plays in occupational safety development in industries. The present study aimed to assess the [...] Read more.

Considering the increasing number in construction accidents in Mainland China and Hong Kong, research on improving the safety performance of construction personnel is important, given the essential role it plays in occupational safety development in industries. The present study aimed to assess the improving channels of safety performance through individual perception and organizational collectivity in a quantitative way by integrating safety motivation as the transition role between individual and organizational levels. The questionnaire survey was conducted with 180 participants from Hong Kong and 197 responses from Mainland China. Structural equation modeling was applied to investigate and compare the direct, indirect, and mediating effects among different safety constructs. This study is unique, as it firstly integrates the theories of personal cognition and group interaction together with the mechanism of safety performance development. Such integration can increase the effectiveness of reducing the unsafety of construction workers at both individual and organizational levels, thereby reducing the numbers of construction accidents, and promoting healthy occupational development of the personnel. Full article

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11 pages, 2470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Are Healthcare Workers Infected with SARS-CoV-2 at Home or at Work? A Comparative Prevalence Study

by Shadi Zahran, Ran Nir-Paz, Ora Paltiel, Chen Stein-Zamir and Yonatan Oster

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12951; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912951 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1714

Abstract

Prior to the widespread use of vaccinations, healthcare workers (HCWs) faced the double burden of caring for unprecedented numbers of critically ill COVID-19 patients while also facing the risk of becoming infected themselves either in healthcare facilities or at home. In order to [...] Read more.

Prior to the widespread use of vaccinations, healthcare workers (HCWs) faced the double burden of caring for unprecedented numbers of critically ill COVID-19 patients while also facing the risk of becoming infected themselves either in healthcare facilities or at home. In order to assess whether SARS-CoV-2-positivity rates in HCWs reflected or differed from those in their residential areas, we compared the SARS-CoV-2-positivity rates during 2020 among HCWs in Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Centers (HHUMC), a tertiary medical center in Jerusalem, Israel, to those of the general population in Jerusalem, stratified by neighborhood. Additionally, we compared the demographic and professional parameters in every group. Four percent of the adult population (>18 years) in Jerusalem tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during 2020 (24,529/605,426) compared to 7.1% of HHUMC HCWs (317/4470), rate ratio 1.75 (95% CI 1.57–1.95), with wide variability (range 0.38–25.0) among different neighborhoods. Of the 30 neighborhoods with more than 50 infected HCWs, 25 showed a higher positivity rate for HCWs compared to the general population. The higher risk of HCWs compared to residents representing the general population in most neighborhoods in Jerusalem may be explained by their behavior in and out of the hospital. Full article

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17 pages, 682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Safety Climate Impacts Safety Voice—Investigating the Mediating Role of Psychological Safety from a Social Cognitive Perspective

by Yunfeng Sun, Hao Yang, Xiang Wu, Yifeng Jiang and Chongyang Qian

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 11867; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191911867 - 20 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2828

Abstract

Safety voice has become a popular research topic in the organizational safety field because it helps to prevent accidents. A good safety climate and psychological safety can motivate employees to actively express their ideas about safety, but the specific mechanisms of safety climate [...] Read more.

Safety voice has become a popular research topic in the organizational safety field because it helps to prevent accidents. A good safety climate and psychological safety can motivate employees to actively express their ideas about safety, but the specific mechanisms of safety climate and psychological safety, on safety voice, are not yet clear. Based on the “environment-subject cognition-behavior” triadic interaction model of social cognitive theory, this paper explores the relationship between safety climate and safety voice, and the mediating role of psychological safety. We collected questionnaires and conducted data analysis of the valid questionnaires using analytical methods such as hierarchical regression, stepwise regression, and the bootstrap sampling method. We found that safety climate significantly and positively influenced safety voice, and psychological safety played a mediating role between safety climate and safety voice, which strengthened the positive relationship between them. From the research results, it was clear that to stimulate employees to express safety voice behavior, organizations should strive to create a good safety climate and pay attention to building employees’ psychological safety. The findings of this paper provide useful insights for the management of employee safety voice behavior in enterprises. Full article

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10 pages, 3278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting Employees Work Engagement in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

by Weng Li, Yasmin Jahan, Madoka Kawai, Yasuko Fukushima, Kana Kazawa and Michiko Moriyama

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 10702; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710702 - 27 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3400

Abstract

Background: Improving the labor productivity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is essential because of the aging population and predicted reduction in the labor force. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that employees are in good health to work for long times. In [...] Read more.

Background: Improving the labor productivity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is essential because of the aging population and predicted reduction in the labor force. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that employees are in good health to work for long times. In this regard, the purpose of the study is to investigate the relationship between work engagement (WE) and related variables among SME employees. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the baseline data of the prospective cohort study, which included 377 employees from three SMEs headquartered in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Results: A multiple regression analysis was performed to see the associations between Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) scores and other variables. Significant associations were found with job satisfaction, age, health literacy (HL), and quality of sleep (all, p < 0.05). Additionally, there was a statistically significant difference observed in WE, quality of sleep, concern for own body, job satisfaction, and family life satisfaction (all, p < 0.001) with respect to high and low HL levels. Conclusions: The results of this study reveal that while implementing health and productivity management in SMEs to increase WE, it is best to concentrate on raising HL, job satisfaction, and sleep quality. To increase generalizability, further research could be conducted with more SMEs companies. Full article

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17 pages, 1405 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Reliability Analysis of Observation-Based Exposure Assessment Tools for the Upper Extremities: A Systematic Review

by Preston Riley Graben, Mark C. Schall, Jr., Sean Gallagher, Richard Sesek and Yadrianna Acosta-Sojo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 10595; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710595 - 25 Aug 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2116

Abstract

(1) Background: The objectives of this systematic review were to (i) summarize the results of studies evaluating the reliability of observational ergonomics exposure assessment tools addressing exposure to physical risk factors associated with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and (ii) identify best practices [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The objectives of this systematic review were to (i) summarize the results of studies evaluating the reliability of observational ergonomics exposure assessment tools addressing exposure to physical risk factors associated with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and (ii) identify best practices for assessing the reliability of new observational exposure assessment tools. (2) Methods: A broad search was conducted in March 2020 of four academic databases: PubMed, Science Direct, Ergonomic Abstracts, and Web of Science. Articles were systematically excluded by removing redundant articles, examining titles and abstracts, assessing relevance to physical ergonomics and the upper extremities, and article type. (3) Results: Eleven articles were included in the review. The results indicated no singular best practice; instead, there were multiple methodological approaches researchers chose to use. Some of the significant variations in methodologies include the selection of reliability coefficients, rater and participant selection, and direct vs. digital observation. (4) Conclusion: The findings serve as a resource summarizing the reliability of existing observational risk assessment tools and identify common methods for assessing the reliability of new observational risk assessment tools. Limitations of this review include the number of databases searched, the removal of truncation symbols, and the selection of keywords used for the initial search. Full article

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14 pages, 2151 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Results of the 2019 Survey of Engineered Nanomaterial Occupational Health and Safety Practices

by Nicole M. Neu-Baker, Adrienne Eastlake and Laura Hodson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(13), 7676; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19137676 - 23 Jun 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2658

Abstract

In collaboration with RTI International, the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) administered a survey to North American companies working with nanomaterials to assess health and safety practices. The results would contribute to understanding the impact of the efforts made [...] Read more.

In collaboration with RTI International, the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) administered a survey to North American companies working with nanomaterials to assess health and safety practices. The results would contribute to understanding the impact of the efforts made by the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC) in communicating occupational health and safety (OHS) considerations for workers when handling these materials. The survey, developed by RAND Corporation, was conducted online from September 2019–December 2019. Forty-five companies or organizations in the U.S. and Canada that fabricate, manufacture, handle, dispose, or otherwise use nanomaterials completed the survey. The survey was designed to answer research questions regarding the nanomaterials in use, which resources the companies have consulted for OHS guidance, and the overall OHS culture at the companies. Other questions specifically addressed whether the companies interacted with NIOSH or NIOSH resources to inform OHS policies and practices. Among participating companies, 57.8% had a maximum of 50 employees. Gold nanoparticles and polymers were most common (n = 20; 45.5% each), followed by graphene (36.4%), carbon nanotubes and nanofibers (34.1%), and zinc oxide nanoparticles (31.8%). Environmental monitoring was performed by 31.8% of the companies. While 88.9% of the companies had laminar flow cabinets, only 67.5% required it to be used with ENMs. Information and training programs were indicated by 90% of the sample, and only 29.6% performed specific health surveillance for ENM workers. Personal protective equipment primarily included gloves (100%) and eye/face protection (97.7%). More than a third (37.8%) of the respondents reported using at least one NIOSH resource to acquire information about safe handling of ENMs. The small number of companies that responded to and completed the survey is a considerable limitation to this study. However, the survey data are valuable for gauging the reach and influence of the NIOSH NTRC on nano OHS and for informing future outreach, particularly to small businesses. Full article

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9 pages, 604 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Pharmacological Preventive Measures Had an Impact on COVID-19 in Healthcare Workers before the Vaccination Effect: A Cohort Study

by Mireia Utzet, Fernando G. Benavides, Rocío Villar, Andrea Burón, Maria Sala, Luis-Eugenio López, Pau Gomar, Xavier Castells, Pilar Diaz, José María Ramada and Consol Serra

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3628; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063628 - 18 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1987

Abstract

Healthcare workers have been and still are at the forefront of COVID-19 patient care. Their infection had direct implications and caused important challenges for healthcare performance. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of non-pharmacological preventive measures against COVID-19 among [...] Read more.

Healthcare workers have been and still are at the forefront of COVID-19 patient care. Their infection had direct implications and caused important challenges for healthcare performance. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of non-pharmacological preventive measures against COVID-19 among healthcare workers. This study is based on a dynamic cohort of healthcare workers (n = 5543) who had been hired by a Spanish hospital for at least one week during 2020. Negative binomial regression models were used to estimate the incidence rate and the rate ratio (RR) between the two waves (defined from 15 March to 21 June and from 22 June to 31 December), considering natural immunity during the first wave and contextual variables. All models were stratified by socio-occupational variables. The average COVID-19 incidence rate per 1000 worker-days showed a significant reduction between the two waves, dropping from 0.82 (CI95%: 0.73–0.91) to 0.39 (0.35–0.44). The adjusted RR was 0.54 (0.48–0.87) when natural immunity was acquired during the first wave, and contextual variables were considered. The significant reduction of the COVID-19 incidence rate could be explained mainly by improvement in the non-pharmacological preventive interventions. It is needed to identify which measures were more effective. Young workers and those with a replacement contract were identified as vulnerable groups that need greater preventive efforts. Future preparedness plans would benefit from these results. Full article

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17 pages, 2729 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Voice Endorsement and Employee Safety Voice Behavior in Construction Projects: The Mediating Role of Leader-Member Exchange

by Yunfeng Sun, Hao Yang, Chongyang Qian, Yifeng Jiang, Xiaowei Luo and Xiang Wu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3374; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063374 - 13 Mar 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3766

Abstract

Employee safety voice refers to publishing opinions and suggestions related to workplace safety issues. In recent years, it has gradually become a hot topic in the field of organizational safety management research. Voice endorsement is the leader’s positive feedback to employees, and it [...] Read more.

Employee safety voice refers to publishing opinions and suggestions related to workplace safety issues. In recent years, it has gradually become a hot topic in the field of organizational safety management research. Voice endorsement is the leader’s positive feedback to employees, and it is a necessary condition and key link for employees to achieve the purpose of voicing. Although there are many types of research on employee safety voice behavior and voice endorsement, few studies have explored the relationship between the two. Therefore, through a paired questionnaire survey of 214 leaders and 344 employees in construction projects, drawing on social exchange theory, using leader-member exchange (LMX) as a mediating variable, we discuss the mechanism of voice endorsement on employee safety voice behavior. The results show that in construction projects, voice endorsement negatively affects employee safety voice behavior and LMX, and LMX positively affects employee safety voice behavior. LMX has a mediating role in the relationship between voice endorsement and employee safety voice behavior. The results of this study can provide useful guidance for improving employee safety voice behavior management. Full article

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21 pages, 900 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Precarious Work as Risk Factor for 5-Year Increase in Depressive Symptoms

by Yucel Demiral, Tobias Ihle, Uwe Rose, Paul Maurice Conway and Hermann Burr

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3175; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063175 - 8 Mar 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2845

Abstract

Objectives: The aim was to investigate the longitudinal relationship between precarious work and depressive symptoms in a representative cohort of employees in Germany. Methods: In the German Study on Mental Health at Work (S-MGA) (n = 2009), depressive symptoms were assessed by [...] Read more.

Objectives: The aim was to investigate the longitudinal relationship between precarious work and depressive symptoms in a representative cohort of employees in Germany. Methods: In the German Study on Mental Health at Work (S-MGA) (n = 2009), depressive symptoms were assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ−9). Precarious work was measured through baseline (2012) self-reported job insecurity, marginal part-time, fixed-term contract, hourly wage and—during follow-ups 2012–2017—unemployment. Among employees without depressive symptoms at baseline (2012), we ran logistic regression analyses stratified by gender with depressive symptoms at follow-up in 2017 as the dependent variable, adjusting for baseline (2012) age, gender, socioeconomic position and partner status. Results: Among men, job insecurity (OR: 2.47; 95% 95% CI: 1.37–4.48) and low wage (3.79; 1.64–8.72) at baseline were significantly associated with depressive symptoms at follow-up. Among women, indicators of precarious work were not associated with depressive symptoms at follow-up. Among men, a cumulative exposure index of precarious work was significantly associated with the development of depressive symptoms (one indicator: 1.84; 0.94–3.60, ≥two indicators: 7.65; 3.30–17.73). This index was not associated with depressive symptoms among women. The population attributable fraction of precarious work due to depressive symptoms among men was approximately 30%. Conclusions: Among employees in Germany, precarious work seems to be a risk factor for the subsequent development of depressive symptoms among men, but not among women. Research on precarious employment in different countries is needed. Full article

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17 pages, 2106 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Degraded Psychophysiological Status in Caregivers and Human Resources Staff during a COVID-19 Peak Unveiled by Psychological and HRV Testing at Workplace

by Véronique Deschodt-Arsac, Valérie Berger, Leila Khlouf and Laurent M. Arsac

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1710; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031710 - 2 Feb 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2263

Abstract

During COVID-19 pandemic peaks, healthcare professionals are a frontline workforce that deals with death on an almost daily basis and experiences a marked increase in workload. Returning home is also associated with fear of contaminating or be contaminated. An obvious consequence is stress [...] Read more.

During COVID-19 pandemic peaks, healthcare professionals are a frontline workforce that deals with death on an almost daily basis and experiences a marked increase in workload. Returning home is also associated with fear of contaminating or be contaminated. An obvious consequence is stress accumulation and associated risks, especially in caregivers in mobility and possibly in human resource teams managing mobility. Here, during the second pandemic peak, we designed a 15-min testing procedure at the workplace, combining HADS and Brief COPE questionnaires with heart rate variability (HRV) recordings to evaluate psychophysiological status in four groups: caregivers in mobility (MOB); human resources teams managing mobility (ADM); caregivers without mobility (N-MOB); and university researchers teaching online (RES). Anxiety, depression, coping strategies, vagally-mediated heart rate regulation, and nonlinear dynamics (entropy) in cardiac autonomic control were quantified. Anxiety reached remarkably high levels in both MOB and ADM, which was reflected in vagal and nonlinear HRV markers. ADM maintained a better problem-solving capacity. MOB and N-MOB exhibited degraded problem-solving capacity. Multivariate approaches show how combining psychological and physiological markers helps draw highly group-specific psychophysiological profiles. Entropy in HRV and problem-solving capacity were highly relevant for that. Combining HADS and Brief COPE questionnaires with HRV testing at the workplace may provide highly relevant cues to manage mobility during crises as well as prevent health risks, absenteeism, and more generally malfunction incidents at hospitals. Full article

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20 pages, 1291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Anyone Else Feeling Completely Nonessential? Meaningful Work, Identification, Job Insecurity, and Online Organizational Behavior during a Lockdown in The Netherlands

by Jaap W. Ouwerkerk and Jos Bartels

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1514; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031514 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4126

Abstract

COVID-19 has affected employees worldwide, and in many countries, governments have used lockdowns to control the pandemic. In some countries, employees were divided into essential and nonessential workers. A survey among Dutch employees (N = 408) investigated how a lockdown in response to [...] Read more.

COVID-19 has affected employees worldwide, and in many countries, governments have used lockdowns to control the pandemic. In some countries, employees were divided into essential and nonessential workers. A survey among Dutch employees (N = 408) investigated how a lockdown in response to the pandemic affected work perceptions. The study found that employees who were not working during lockdown, or whose work hours were reduced sharply, perceived their job as contributing less to the greater good, identified less strongly with their organization, and experienced more job insecurity compared with those who retained a large percentage of their work activities. The longer employees were in lockdown, the weaker their greater-good motivations and the more job insecurity. Furthermore, identification with colleagues and perception of positive meaning in one’s job were significant predictors of online organizational citizenship behavior directed at other individuals (OCB-I), whereas organizational identification predicted such behavior directed at the organization (OCB-O). Moreover, indicative of a job preservation motive, increased job insecurity was related to more online OCB-O, and more deviant online behaviors directed at others in the form of cyberostracism and cyberincivility. We further discuss practical lessons for future lockdowns to minimize negative consequences for organizations and employees. Full article

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14 pages, 651 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Income and Industry on New-Onset Diabetes among Employees: A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Reiko Ishihara, Akira Babazono, Ning Liu and Reiko Yamao

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1090; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031090 - 19 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2012

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of income and industry type on the risk of developing diabetes among Japanese workers, including how this impact is affected by sex. A total of 24,516 employees at small- and medium-sized enterprises in [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of income and industry type on the risk of developing diabetes among Japanese workers, including how this impact is affected by sex. A total of 24,516 employees at small- and medium-sized enterprises in Japan aged 40–74 years who underwent health examinations in fiscal years 2010–2015 were included in this retrospective cohort study. Generalized linear regression models were used to assess the association between new-onset diabetes and income and industry. In men, the cumulative incidence rate was significantly higher in the low-income group; it was highest in the transportation and postal service industries. Although income and industry were independent risk factors for developing diabetes in men, an interaction was found between income and industry, which was affected by participants’ sex: in specific industries (i.e., lifestyle-related, personal services, and entertainment services), men had a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes in the high-income group, and women had a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes in the low-income group. These findings highlight important factors to consider in assessing diabetes risk and suggest that efficient primary and secondary prevention should be encouraged in industries where workers have a high risk of diabetes. Full article

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2021

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22 pages, 1022 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Enforced Working from Home on Employee Job Satisfaction during COVID-19: An Event System Perspective

by Jun Yu and Yihong Wu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(24), 13207; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182413207 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 19359

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, working from home (WFH) became the only option for many organizations, generating increasing interest in how such arrangements impact employee job satisfaction. Adopting an event system perspective, this study employed an online survey to capture the WFH experiences of [...] Read more.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, working from home (WFH) became the only option for many organizations, generating increasing interest in how such arrangements impact employee job satisfaction. Adopting an event system perspective, this study employed an online survey to capture the WFH experiences of 256 workers from 66 Chinese enterprises during the pandemic. Using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), the study examined how satisfaction was affected by five job characteristics when working from home: longevity (time), home workspace suitability (space), job autonomy (criticality), digital social support (novelty) and monitoring mechanisms (disruption). The findings reveal that three configurations promote employee job satisfaction and that a suitable home workspace is a core condition. In the absence of a suitable workspace, digital social support and an appropriate monitoring mechanism, long-term WFH was found to undermine job satisfaction. However, job autonomy is not a necessary condition for employee job satisfaction. These findings have clear implications for theory and practice. Full article

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15 pages, 792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Ecuadorian Version of the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT): Adaptation and Validation

by Andrea M. Vinueza-Solórzano, Cecilia Alexandra Portalanza-Chavarría, Clarissa P. P. de Freitas, Wilmar B. Schaufeli, Hans De Witte, Claudio S. Hutz and Ana Claudia Souza Vazquez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 7121; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18137121 - 2 Jul 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4517

Abstract

This study aimed to adapt and show evidence of validity for the Ecuadorian version of the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) considering only its “core” dimensions. The adaptation process included its translation and back translation. For content validation, expert reviews and focus groups were [...] Read more.

This study aimed to adapt and show evidence of validity for the Ecuadorian version of the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) considering only its “core” dimensions. The adaptation process included its translation and back translation. For content validation, expert reviews and focus groups were carried out. A confirmatory factor analysis was used to identify the psychometric properties and dimensionality of the scale. The reliability of the scale was assessed through the alpha, omega and composite reliability indices. To carry out the study, the questionnaire was applied to a sample of workers with a high level of education in Ecuador. In total, 2237 respondents were considered in the analysis. The results showed that the hierarchical model for BAT-23 and its short version, the BAT-12 scale, is the most adequate structure for analysis of the construct in the Ecuadorian context. The reliability of the general factor of burnout and its dimensions, evaluated by composite reliability, omega and Cronbach’s alpha, showed satisfactory indices. The findings obtained provide support for the reliability and validity of the Burnout Assessment Tool for the Ecuadorian context. Full article

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61 pages, 1511 KiB

Open AccessReview

Occupational Health Hazards: Employer, Employee, and Labour Union Concerns

by Oscar Rikhotso, Thabiso John Morodi and Daniel Masilu Masekameni

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(10), 5423; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18105423 - 19 May 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7321

Abstract

This review paper examines the extent of employer, worker, and labour union concerns to occupational health hazard exposure, as a function of previously reported and investigated complaints. Consequently, an online literature search was conducted, encompassing publicly available reports resulting from investigations, regulatory inspection, [...] Read more.

This review paper examines the extent of employer, worker, and labour union concerns to occupational health hazard exposure, as a function of previously reported and investigated complaints. Consequently, an online literature search was conducted, encompassing publicly available reports resulting from investigations, regulatory inspection, and enforcement activities conducted by relevant government structures from South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Of the three countries’ government structures, the United States’ exposure investigative activities conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health returned literature search results aligned to the study design, in the form of health hazard evaluation reports reposited on its online database. The main initiators of investigated exposure cases were employers, workers, and unions at 86% of the analysed health hazard evaluation reports conducted between 2000 and 2020. In the synthesised literature, concerns to exposure from chemical and physical hazards were substantiated by occupational hygiene measurement outcomes confirming excessive exposures above regulated health and safety standards in general. Recommendations to abate the confirmed excessive exposures were made in all cases, highlighting the scientific value of occupational hygiene measurements as a basis for exposure control, informing risk and hazard perception. Conclusively, all stakeholders at the workplace should have adequate risk perception to trigger abatement measures. Full article

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23 pages, 1570 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Safety–Performance Nexus: A Study on the Moderating and Mediating Influence of Work Motivation in the Causal Link between Occupational Health and Safety Management (OHSM) Practices and Work Performance in the Oil and Gas Sector

by Edmund Nana Kwame Nkrumah, Suxia Liu, David Doe Fiergbor and Linda Serwah Akoto

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(10), 5064; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18105064 - 11 May 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7365

Abstract

The preventive systems required to ensure workers are protected from occupational accidents and injuries dwell heavily on effective occupational health and safety management (OHSM) systems and practices. In this study, the concepts of the job demand-resource model (JD-R), self-determination theory (SDT), and perceived [...] Read more.

The preventive systems required to ensure workers are protected from occupational accidents and injuries dwell heavily on effective occupational health and safety management (OHSM) systems and practices. In this study, the concepts of the job demand-resource model (JD-R), self-determination theory (SDT), and perceived organizational support for safety (POSS) theory were adopted to develop a holistic conceptual model that seeks to unravel moderating and mediating effects of work motivation on the causal link between OHSM practices and work performance in the oil and gas sector. The study measured OHSM practices from six distinct safety dimensional perspectives and work performance using a two-dimensional distinct construct that assesses different aspects of positive work behaviours. A quantitative research approach through the structural equation modelling analysis technique was applied. A total of 1310 participants were selected across three major organizations that represent downstream, upstream, and middle stream of the Ghanaian oil and gas sector. Respondents were recruited through stratified, purposive, and convenient sampling techniques. The findings from the path estimate through the SEM analysis suggested that OHSM practices positively and significantly influenced both safety performance and task performance of employees. However, OHSM practices indicated a higher positive significant influence on task performance than safety performance. The significant influence of OHSM practices on both task and safety performance was significantly moderated and partially mediated by work motivation, while both task performance and safety performance were significantly determined by work motivation. In this study, the dimensions for assessing work performance extend the performance theories established in previous literature, whereas the integrated multifaceted OHSM practices employed diverge from the traditional individualistic approach by providing insights into more flexible managerial practices that are employee-centred and outcome-oriented. The findings from this study address the need for organizations to appreciate the importance of managing workers’ perception of OHSM practices as a motivational drive that induces work performance. Full article

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9 pages, 1813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Demographic and Cardiovascular Risk Factors Associated with Drug Use in Truck Drivers in the State of São Paulo, Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Mariana Moura Pereira, Antonio de Padua Mansur, Julio Yoshio Takada and Vilma Leyton

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4927; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094927 - 6 May 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2658

Abstract

The aim of the study is to analyze the association between risk factors for the health of truck drivers and previous use of illicit drugs. A cross-sectional study examined the data from 2071 truck drivers between 2010 and 2016. Demographic variables, risk factors [...] Read more.

The aim of the study is to analyze the association between risk factors for the health of truck drivers and previous use of illicit drugs. A cross-sectional study examined the data from 2071 truck drivers between 2010 and 2016. Demographic variables, risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the use of illicit drugs were analyzed. The stepwise logistic regression model was used for the adjusted analysis. The dependent variable was the previous use of illicit drugs, and independent variables were those with p < 0.1 at a bivariate analysis. The average age of the truck drivers was 42.27 ± 11.07 years, and the previous use of illicit drugs was reported or detected in 388 (18.7%) drivers. Compared to non-users, drug users were younger (37.25 ± 9.45 vs. 43.43 ± 11.1 years; p < 0.001) and single (43.3% vs. 28.4%; p < 0.001). The independent variables for illicit drugs were age (OR = 0.93 (95% CI: 0.91–0.95; p < 0.001)), smoking (OR = 2.18 (95% CI: 1.39–3.44; p = 0.001)), alcohol consumption (OR = 1.626 (95% CI: 1.06–2.49; p = 0.026)) and driving hours per day (OR = 1.08 (95% CI: 1.01–1.15; p = 0.012)). Users of illicit drugs had multiple risk factors for CVD and traffic accidents. Full article

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24 pages, 896 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Interplay of Socioecological Determinants of Work–Life Balance, Subjective Wellbeing and Employee Wellbeing

by Ka Po Wong, Fion Choi Hung Lee, Pei-Lee Teh and Alan Hoi Shou Chan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4525; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094525 - 24 Apr 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 8740

Abstract

Today’s workers are struggling to achieve a balance between their work and personal life roles because of both specific needs and limited resources. This study explored the socioecological factors that influence work–life balance (WLB) and how they operate. The relationships between WLB, subjective [...] Read more.

Today’s workers are struggling to achieve a balance between their work and personal life roles because of both specific needs and limited resources. This study explored the socioecological factors that influence work–life balance (WLB) and how they operate. The relationships between WLB, subjective wellbeing, employee wellbeing and quality time allocation were examined. A total of 1063 responses were received, using an online survey. The results show that relational, community and societal factors directly influenced the individual factors and were indirectly associated with perceived WLB. Individual factors (i.e., personal feelings, behaviours and health) were found to be the crucial determinants of an individual’s perceived WLB. It was found that WLB positively correlated with employee wellbeing and quality and quantity of personal life-time. Subjective wellbeing was found to be a significant moderator in the relationship between WLB and its outcomes. This study demonstrated the process of how workers determine their own WLB by applying the socioecological framework for categorising the determinants and suggested new avenues that improve the whole wellbeing of workers and also foster long-term development of organisations. Full article

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20 pages, 3648 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Scoping Review of Psychosocial Risks to Health Workers during the Covid-19 Pandemic

by Paula Franklin and Anna Gkiouleka

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(5), 2453; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052453 - 2 Mar 2021

Cited by 86 | Viewed by 16002

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed health workers to a diverse set of hazards impacting their physical, psychological and social wellbeing. This review aims to provide an overview of the categories of the psychosocial risk factors and hazards affecting HCWs during the Covid-19 pandemic [...] Read more.

The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed health workers to a diverse set of hazards impacting their physical, psychological and social wellbeing. This review aims to provide an overview of the categories of the psychosocial risk factors and hazards affecting HCWs during the Covid-19 pandemic and the recommendations for prevention. We used the scoping review methodology to collate categories of psychosocial risks, the related health outcomes, interventions, and data gaps. The review was conducted on global peer-reviewed academic and authoritative grey literature, published between 1. January–26. October 2020; in total, 220 articles were included into the review and the subsequent analysis. Analysis of the extracted data found PSRs related to four sources: personal protective equipment (PPE), job content, work organisation, and social context. is. Women health workers and nurses reported worst health outcomes. Majority of the research to date concerns health workers in secondary care, while data on psychosocial risks at primary and community-based settings are scarce. However, the emerging research implies that the pandemic creates psychosocial risks also to non-clinical health workers. The intervention and mitigation measures address individual and organisational levels. Preventative and mitigating measures for social and societal risks—such as staff shortages, intersecting inequalities, and financial stressors require further research. Full article

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9 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Mesothelioma in Agriculture in Lombardy, Italy: An Unrecognized Risk

by Carolina Mensi, Barbara Dallari, Marco Polonioli, Luciano Riboldi, Dario Consonni and Angela Cecilia Pesatori

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18010358 - 5 Jan 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3976

Abstract

Cohort studies showed consistently low risks for malignant mesothelioma (MM) among agricultural workers, however the investigated exposures did not include asbestos. Our aim is to describe sources of asbestos exposure of MM in agriculture. Twenty-six MM cases in agricultural or seed trades workers [...] Read more.

Cohort studies showed consistently low risks for malignant mesothelioma (MM) among agricultural workers, however the investigated exposures did not include asbestos. Our aim is to describe sources of asbestos exposure of MM in agriculture. Twenty-six MM cases in agricultural or seed trades workers were identified through the MM registry of the Lombardy region, Italy in 2000–2016. Asbestos exposures were investigated through a standardized questionnaire. The most frequent exposure circumstances were recycled jute bags previously containing asbestos (11 cases) and maintenance and repair of asbestos roofs (12 subjects). Three subjects performed maintenance and repair of tractor asbestos brakes and two used asbestos filters for wine production. Our data suggest asbestos exposure opportunities in the agricultural setting, underlining the need to look for this exposure in subjects affected with mesothelioma. Full article

15 pages, 4208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scientometric Analysis of Safety Sign Research: 1990–2019

by Jingqi Gao, Xiang Wu, Xiaowei Luo and Shukai Guan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18010273 - 1 Jan 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4688

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the research themes and hotspots of safety signs research between 1990 and 2019 through the scientometric analysis method. In total, 3102 articles of literature from the Web of Science core database were analyzed by the [...] Read more.

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the research themes and hotspots of safety signs research between 1990 and 2019 through the scientometric analysis method. In total, 3102 articles of literature from the Web of Science core database were analyzed by the CiteSpace visualization tool and the results were displayed in mapping knowledge domains. The overall characteristics analysis showed that safety sign is an emerging research field in a rapid development stage—81.4% of the literature works were published in the past ten years, and the United States was in the leading position, followed by China and Canada. The keyword co-occurrence analysis indicated that traffic signs and driving safety were the most popular research topics and have been combined with simulation technology in recent years, whereby individual mental health has been added as an influential factor. The journals and category co-citation analysis showed that the safety signs research involved many subjects, mainly engineering, transportation and public safety. The results indicated that the safety signs research is multi-disciplinary, and it will continue to develop in various scientific domains in the future. The conclusions can provide help and reference for potential readers, as well as help with the sustainable development of safety signs research. Full article

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2020

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14 pages, 802 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effectiveness of the Validation Method in Work Satisfaction and Motivation of Nursing Home Care Professionals: A Literature Review

by Iván Sánchez-Martínez, Raül Vilar, Javier Irujo, Duna Ulsamer, Dolors Cano, Celia Casaca Soares, Ángel Acevedo, Javier Jerez-Roig and Montserrat Celdrán

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18010201 - 29 Dec 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5318

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to carry out a literature review on the effectiveness of the validation method (VM) in job satisfaction and motivation of care professionals working with older people in nursing homes. The review was carried out in specialised databases: [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to carry out a literature review on the effectiveness of the validation method (VM) in job satisfaction and motivation of care professionals working with older people in nursing homes. The review was carried out in specialised databases: Scopus, PsychINFO, PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Google Scholar, Scielo, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 9046 results were obtained, out of which a total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria: five quantitative, four qualitative, one single case series, two quasi-experimental and two mixed methods studies. The results of the analysed studies report that the VM can be an effective tool that facilitates communication and interaction in care, reducing levels of stress and job dissatisfaction among care professionals. The VM facilitates communication between professionals and older people with dementia, and improves the management of complex situations that may arise in care, directly influencing a reduction in work stress and increasing job satisfaction. Full article

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29 pages, 1344 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of Social Factors on Job Crafting: A Meta-Analysis and Review

by Huatian Wang, Peikai Li and Shi Chen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(21), 8016; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17218016 - 30 Oct 2020

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 11217

Abstract

Despite the considerable focus on job characteristics and individual differences in job crafting research, the influence of social factors on job crafting has not been well-acknowledged. Based on social interaction and job crafting literature, this meta-analysis estimates the associations between social factors (i.e., [...] Read more.

Despite the considerable focus on job characteristics and individual differences in job crafting research, the influence of social factors on job crafting has not been well-acknowledged. Based on social interaction and job crafting literature, this meta-analysis estimates the associations between social factors (i.e., organizational insiders and outsiders) and job crafting, and how these social factors contribute to employee outcomes through their job crafting. Based on a sample of 51 empirical studies that included 54 independent samples (N = 17,863), we found that social factors of positive leadership styles (e.g., empowering and transformational) and coworker support were positively related to employee job crafting. Moreover, leadership showed a stronger correlation with employee job crafting than coworker support and Leader-Member-Exchange (LMX). Further, our study showed that employee job crafting positively mediates the relationships between social factors and work outcomes (e.g., job performance and well-being). Our study contributes to job crafting literature by integrating social factors into the job crafting model and demonstrating that the social context of work (in particular organizational insiders) plays a crucial role in shaping employees’ job crafting behavior. We also emphasize the critical role that job crafting plays in transmitting valuable social resources into improved work outcomes. Building on our results, we provide future direction for job crafting research and discuss how our results can imply practice in terms of job crafting training. Full article

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16 pages, 909 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Performance Implications of Job Insecurity: The Sequential Mediating Effect of Job Stress and Organizational Commitment, and the Buffering Role of Ethical Leadership

by Min-Jik Kim and Byung-Jik Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(21), 7837; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17217837 - 26 Oct 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5201

Abstract

Although previous works have examined how job insecurity affects the perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of members in an organization, those studies have not paid enough attention to the relationship between job insecurity and performance or the mediating processes in that relationship. Considering that [...] Read more.

Although previous works have examined how job insecurity affects the perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of members in an organization, those studies have not paid enough attention to the relationship between job insecurity and performance or the mediating processes in that relationship. Considering that organizational performance is a fundamental target or purpose, investigating it is greatly needed. This research examines both mediating factors and a moderator in the link between job insecurity and organizational performance by building a moderated sequential mediation model. To be specific, we hypothesize that the degree of an employee’s job stress and organizational commitment sequentially mediate the relationship between job insecurity and performance. Furthermore, ethical leadership could moderate the association between job insecurity and job stress. Using a three-wave data set gathered from 301 currently working employees in South Korea, we reveal that not only do job stress and organizational commitment sequentially mediate the job insecurity–performance link, but also that ethical leadership plays a buffering role of in the job insecurity–job stress link. Our findings suggest that the degree of job stress and organizational commitment (as mediators), as well as ethical leadership (as a moderator), function as intermediating mechanisms in the job insecurity–performance link. Full article

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10 pages, 808 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Change in Oxidative Stress Biomarkers During 30 Days in Saturation Dive: A Pilot Study

by Simona Mrakic-Sposta, Alessandra Vezzoli, Federica D’Alessandro, Matteo Paganini, Cinzia Dellanoce, Danilo Cialoni and Gerardo Bosco

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(19), 7118; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17197118 - 28 Sep 2020

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 3617

Abstract

Saturation diving allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness while working at depth for prolonged periods but may increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Such modifications can affect endothelial function by exacerbating oxidative stress. This study investigated the effects of saturation [...] Read more.

Saturation diving allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness while working at depth for prolonged periods but may increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Such modifications can affect endothelial function by exacerbating oxidative stress. This study investigated the effects of saturation diving on oxidative stress damage. Redox status was evaluated through: ROS production; total antioxidant capacity (TAC); nitric oxide metabolites (NOx); nitrotyrosine (3-NT); and lipid peroxidation (8-iso-PGF2α) assessment. Creatinine and neopterin were analyzed as markers of renal function and damage. Measurements were performed on saliva and urine samples obtained at four time points: pre; deep; post; and 24 h post. Four divers were included in the study. After the saturation dive (post), significant (p < 0.05) increases in ROS (0.12 ± 0.03 vs. 0.36 ± 0.06 µmol.min⁻¹), TAC (1.88 ± 0.03 vs. 2.01 ± 0.08 mM), NOx (207.0 ± 103.3 vs. 441.8 ± 97.3 µM), 3-NT (43.32 ± 18.03 vs. 18.64 ± 7.45 nM·L⁻¹), and 8-iso-PGF2α (249.7 ± 45.1 vs. 371.9 ± 54.9 pg·mg⁻¹ creatinine) were detected. Markers of renal damage were increased as well after the end of the saturation dive (creatinine 0.54 ± 0.22 vs. 2.72 ± 1.12 g-L⁻¹; neopterin 73.3 ± 27.9 vs. 174.3 ± 20.53 μmol·mol⁻¹ creatinine). These results could ameliorate commercial or military diving protocols or improve the understanding of symptoms caused by oxygen level elevation. Full article

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17 pages, 825 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work-Family Conflict and Depressive Symptoms Among Chinese Employees: Cross-Level Interaction of Organizational Justice Climate and Family Flexibility

by Mingjie Zhou, Jinfeng Zhang, Fugui Li and Chen Chen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(19), 6954; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17196954 - 23 Sep 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3461

Abstract

This study aims to examine how organizational and family factors protect employees from depressive symptoms induced by work-family conflict. With a cross-sectional design, a total of 2184 Chinese employees from 76 departments completed measures of work-family conflict, organizational justice, family flexibility, and depressive [...] Read more.

This study aims to examine how organizational and family factors protect employees from depressive symptoms induced by work-family conflict. With a cross-sectional design, a total of 2184 Chinese employees from 76 departments completed measures of work-family conflict, organizational justice, family flexibility, and depressive symptoms. The results showed that work-family conflict including work-to-family conflict and family-to-work conflict was positively associated with depressive symptoms. In cross-level analysis, organizational justice climate weakened the adverse effect of work-family conflict on depressive symptoms and the buffering effects of procedural and distributive justice climate in the association between work-family conflict and depressive symptoms depended on family flexibility. Specifically, compared with employees with high family flexibility, procedural and distributive justice climate had a stronger buffering effect for employees with low family flexibility. These results indicate that organization and family could compensate each other to mitigate the effect of work-family conflict on employees’ depressive symptoms. Cultivating justice climate in organization and enhancing family flexibility might be an effective way to reduce employees’ depressive symptoms. Full article

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11 pages, 1014 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Rescuer Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Jeopardised by Previous Fatiguing Exercise?

by J. Arturo Abraldes, Ricardo J. Fernandes, Núria Rodríguez and Ana Sousa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(18), 6668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17186668 - 13 Sep 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3504

Abstract

Survival outcomes increase significantly when cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is provided correctly, but rescuer’s fatigue can compromise CPR delivery. We investigated the effect of a 100-m maximal run on CPR and physiological variables in 14 emergency medical technicians (age 29.2 ± 5.8 years, height [...] Read more.

Survival outcomes increase significantly when cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is provided correctly, but rescuer’s fatigue can compromise CPR delivery. We investigated the effect of a 100-m maximal run on CPR and physiological variables in 14 emergency medical technicians (age 29.2 ± 5.8 years, height 171.2 ± 1.1 cm and weight 73.4 ± 13.1 kg). Using an adult manikin and a compression-ventilation ratio of 30:2, participants performed 4-min CPR after 4-min baseline conditions (CPR) and 4-min CPR after a 100-m maximal run carrying emergency material (CPR-run). Physiological variables were continuously measured during baseline and CPR conditions using a portable gas analyzer (K4b², Cosmed, Rome, Italy) and analyzed using two HD video cameras (Sony, HDR PJ30VE, Japan). Higher VO₂ (14.4 ± 2.1 and 22.0 ± 2.5 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) and heart rate (123 ± 17 and 148 ± 17 bpm) were found for CPR-run. However, the compression rate was also higher during the CPR-run (373 ± 51 vs. 340 ± 49) and between every three complete cycles (81 ± 9 vs. 74 ± 14, 99 ± 14 vs. 90 ± 10, 99 ± 10 vs. 90 ± 10, and, 101 ± 15 vs. 94 ± 11, for cycle 3, 6, 9 and 12, respectively). Fatigue induced by the 100-m maximal run had a strong impact on physiological variables, but a mild impact on CPR emergency medical technicians’ performance. Full article

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11 pages, 304 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Associated with the Health Literacy on Social Determinants of Health: A Focus on Socioeconomic Position and Work Environment

by Mikyeong Cho, Young-Me Lee, Seung joo Lim and Hyeonkyeong Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(18), 6663; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17186663 - 13 Sep 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4799

Abstract

Though impressive progress has been made in healthcare worldwide, many people still experience disproportionate health burdens and inequities in healthcare services. For establishing sustainable development goals, health literacy on social determinants of health (HL-SDH) has been recognized as a key to creating better [...] Read more.

Though impressive progress has been made in healthcare worldwide, many people still experience disproportionate health burdens and inequities in healthcare services. For establishing sustainable development goals, health literacy on social determinants of health (HL-SDH) has been recognized as a key to creating better social and physical environments. In particular, low levels of health literacy among industrial workers are considered as a major barrier to benefitting from the progress made in healthcare. This study aimed to describe levels of HL-SDH and to examine the relationships among socioeconomic status, working environment, and HL-SDH among workers in Korea. A total of 660 workers from an online panel participated in Korea from 30 May to 7 June 2018. The Korean version of HL-SDH instrument consisted of 33 items and four dimensions: access, understand, appraise, and apply. Descriptive statistics, a t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis were conducted. The mean score of HL-SDH was 2.48. Perceived mental health status, annual income, and the number of employees per worksite were found to be statistically significant factors related to HL-SDH (F = 3.64, p = <0.001). The HL-SDH score was considerably higher, indicating that nursing interventions to enhance HL-SDH are required for health promotion, especially among workers in poor social and working environments. Full article

23 pages, 886 KiB

Open AccessReview

Determinants of Occupational Safety Culture in Hospitals and other Workplaces—Results from an Integrative Literature Review

by Anke Wagner, Ladina Schöne and Monika A. Rieger

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(18), 6588; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17186588 - 10 Sep 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4381

Abstract

Background: The aim of the present study was to obtain an overview of occupational safety culture by assessing and mapping determinants in different workplaces (hospital workplaces and workplaces in construction, manufacturing, and other industry sectors) using an already established theoretical framework with seven [...] Read more.

Background: The aim of the present study was to obtain an overview of occupational safety culture by assessing and mapping determinants in different workplaces (hospital workplaces and workplaces in construction, manufacturing, and other industry sectors) using an already established theoretical framework with seven clusters developed by Cornelissen and colleagues. We further derived implications for further research on determinants of occupational safety culture for the hospital workplace by comparing the hospital workplace with other workplaces. Methods: We conducted an integrative literature review and searched systematically for studies in four research databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsycINFO). The search was undertaken in 2019, and updated in April 2020. Results of the included studies were analyzed and mapped to the seven clusters proposed by Cornelissen and colleagues. Results: After screening 5566 hits, 44 studies were included. Among these, 17 studies were conducted in hospital workplaces and 27 were performed in other workplaces. We identified various determinants of an occupational safety culture. Most studies in hospital and other workplaces included determinants referring to management and colleagues, to workplace characteristics and circumstances, and to employee characteristics. Only few determinants in the studies referred to other factors such as socio-economic factors or to content relating to climate and culture. Conclusions: The theoretical framework used was helpful in classifying various determinants from studies at different workplaces. By comparing and contrasting results of studies investigating determinants at the hospital workplace with those addressing other workplaces, it was possible to derive implications for further research, especially for the hospital sector. To date, many determinants for occupational safety culture known from workplaces outside of the healthcare system have not been addressed in studies covering hospital workplaces. For further studies in the hospital workplace, it may be promising to address determinants that have been less studied so far to gain a more comprehensive picture of important determinants of an occupational safety culture in the hospital sector. Full article

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10 pages, 888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Get Vigorous with Physical Exercise and Improve Your Well-Being at Work!

by Ester Gil-Beltrán, Isabella Meneghel, Susana Llorens and Marisa Salanova

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(17), 6384; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17176384 - 2 Sep 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5129

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate whether people who exercise regularly have higher levels of psychological well-being at work. Doing physical exercise is a habit that not only has consequences for physical and mental health, but it can also have positive [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to investigate whether people who exercise regularly have higher levels of psychological well-being at work. Doing physical exercise is a habit that not only has consequences for physical and mental health, but it can also have positive consequences for organizations because physical exercise makes it easier for the employee to recover from physical, mental, and emotional effort during the workday, thus showing higher levels of engagement the next day. Through the analysis of structural equation models in a sample of 485 workers from different Spanish and Latin American companies, this study shows that subjects who exercise more have higher levels of vigor in physical exercise, which is positively related to high levels of well-being at work. This means that organizations that promote activities related to physical exercise among their employees are building a process of resource recovery, which, through the vigor of these activities, makes workers feel less stressed and more satisfied, thus experiencing greater well-being at work. Therefore, at a practical level, these results suggest that the practice of physical exercise is a tool for organizations that want to promote their employees’ psychological well-being. Full article

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31 pages, 849 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Review of SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 Viability, Susceptibility to Treatment, and the Disinfection and Reuse of PPE, Particularly Filtering Facepiece Respirators

by José G. B. Derraik, William A. Anderson, Elizabeth A. Connelly and Yvonne C. Anderson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(17), 6117; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17176117 - 22 Aug 2020

Cited by 76 | Viewed by 9030

Abstract

In the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2, hospitals are often stretched beyond capacity. There are widespread reports of dwindling supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly N95-type filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs), which are paramount to protect frontline medical/nursing staff, and to minimize further [...] Read more.

In the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2, hospitals are often stretched beyond capacity. There are widespread reports of dwindling supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly N95-type filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs), which are paramount to protect frontline medical/nursing staff, and to minimize further spread of the virus. We carried out a rapid review to summarize the existing literature on the viability of SARS-CoV-2, the efficacy of key potential disinfection procedures against the virus (specifically ultraviolet light and heat), and the impact of these procedures on FFR performance, material integrity, and/or fit. In light of the recent discovery of SARS-CoV-2 and limited associated research, our review also focused on the closely related SARS-CoV-1. We propose a possible whole-of-PPE disinfection solution for potential reuse that could be rapidly instituted in many health care settings, without significant investments in equipment. Full article

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18 pages, 2381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Biomechanical Waist Comfort Model for Manual Material Lifting

by Yongbao Zhang, Jinjing Ke, Xiang Wu and Xiaowei Luo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(16), 5948; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165948 - 16 Aug 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7081

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is a common disorder that affects the working population worldwide. LBP causes more disability than any other conditions all around the world. Most existing studies focus on the occupational physical factors in association with LBP, while few focus on [...] Read more.

Low back pain (LBP) is a common disorder that affects the working population worldwide. LBP causes more disability than any other conditions all around the world. Most existing studies focus on the occupational physical factors in association with LBP, while few focus on individual factors, especially the lack of quantitative calculation of waist comfort in biomechanics. Based on the physical statistics of Chinese men, this research used human posture analysis (HPA) to establish the waist strength formula and analyzed the waist strength during a manual material handling. It also explored the influence of weight and height of lifting objects on the L5-S1 spinal load. On this basis, a waist comfort model was proposed in combination with the recommended weight limit (RWL) recommended by NIOSH, and the parameter selection and waist comfort value were verified by Jack simulation software. The results show that pulling force of the Erector Spinae of the waist is closely related to the weight and lifting height of the object. Parameter verification and Jack software simulation results show that the force of L5-S1 is less than 3400 N, which proves that the waist force under this posture is acceptable. The developed waist comfort model can be applied to evaluate work risk, to adjust working intensity and powered exoskeleton design, aiming to decrease the prevalence of LBP. Full article

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22 pages, 1221 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of the Unitary Prevention Delegates in the Participative Management of Occupational Risk Prevention and Its Impact on Occupational Accidents in the Spanish Working Environment

by Raúl Payá Castiblanque

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(16), 5678; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165678 - 6 Aug 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2938

Abstract

The aim of this research was to study the impact of the unitary prevention delegates (UPDs) on the Spanish working environment. To this end, a cross-sectional study was carried out using microdata from the National Survey on Health and Safety Management in Companies [...] Read more.

The aim of this research was to study the impact of the unitary prevention delegates (UPDs) on the Spanish working environment. To this end, a cross-sectional study was carried out using microdata from the National Survey on Health and Safety Management in Companies (ENGE-2009) with a sample of 5147 work centres. To measure the relationship between the presence of UPD in workplaces with preventive management indicators and damage to health, individual and multiple logistic regression models were carried out, calculating the crude (cOR) and adjusted (aOR) odds ratios by sociodemographic covariates, with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Ambivalent results were obtained. On the one hand, a positive impact of the UPDs was found, in the management of prevention showing a higher probability of prevention plans being carried out (aOR = 3.97; 95% CI: 3.26–4.83), risk assessments (aOR = 5.96; 95% CI: 4.44–8.01) and preventive actions were planned (aOR = 3.01; 95% CI: 2.55–3.56), as well as 1.56 times less likely to register minor occupational accidents (aOR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.53–0.76). On the other hand, the presence of the UPDs did not promote the activation of a participatory culture and did not reduce the probability of suffering serious and fatal accidents at work. In conclusion, UPDs need to activate workers’ participation to improve results. Full article

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12 pages, 1183 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends in Work Conditions and Associations with Workers’ Health in Recent 15 Years: The Role of Job Automation Probability

by Wan-Ju Cheng, Li-Chung Pien, Tomohide Kubo and Yawen Cheng

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(15), 5499; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17155499 - 30 Jul 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3236

Abstract

Job automation and associated psychosocial hazards are emerging workplace challenges. This study examined the trends in work conditions and associations with workers’ health over time in jobs with different automation probabilities. We utilized data from six waves of national questionnaire surveys of randomly [...] Read more.

Job automation and associated psychosocial hazards are emerging workplace challenges. This study examined the trends in work conditions and associations with workers’ health over time in jobs with different automation probabilities. We utilized data from six waves of national questionnaire surveys of randomly selected 95,762 employees between 2001 and 2016. The Job Content Questionnaire, the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, and the Self-Rated Health Scale were applied, and working time was self-reported. Automation probability was derived for 38 occupations and then categorized into three groups. Trends in work conditions and the associations between automation probability, work conditions and health were examined. We observed a 7% decrease in high automation probability jobs, an overall increase in job demands for and prevalence of shift work, and a decrease in job control. Workers with high automation probability jobs had low job demands, low job control and high job insecurity. Low automation probability was associated with burnout in logistic regression models. The odds ratio of job insecurity, long working hours, and shift work relating to health was higher in the later years of the surveys. In conclusion, there has been a decrease in high automation probability jobs. Workers employed in jobs with different levels of automation probability encountered different work condition challenges. Full article

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15 pages, 971 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Symptoms in Health Care Workers during the COVID-19 Epidemic. A Cross-Sectional Survey

by Nicola Magnavita, Giovanni Tripepi and Reparata Rosa Di Prinzio

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(14), 5218; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17145218 - 20 Jul 2020

Cited by 178 | Viewed by 10366

Abstract

In March–April 2020, the Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic suddenly hit Italian healthcare facilities and in some of them many staff members became infected. In this work 595 health care workers from a public company were tested for Severe acute respiratory syndrome [...] Read more.

In March–April 2020, the Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic suddenly hit Italian healthcare facilities and in some of them many staff members became infected. In this work 595 health care workers from a public company were tested for Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (82 positive) and asked to complete a questionnaire on early COVID-19 symptoms. Respiratory symptoms were present in 56.1% of cases. Anosmia and dysgeusia in COVID-19 cases were found to have an odds ratio (OR) = 100.7 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 26.5–382.6) and an OR = 51.8 (95%CI 16.6–161.9), respectively. About one in three of the cases (29.3%) never manifested symptoms. Anxiety was reported by 16.6% of COVID-19 cases and depression by 20.3%, with a significant increase in the estimated risk (OR = 4.3; 95%CI = 2.4–7.4 for anxiety, OR = 3.5; 95%CI = 2.0–6.0 for depression). In cases, sleep was a significant moderating factor in the relationship between occupational stress, or organizational justice, and anxiety. The early diagnosis of COVID-19 in health care workers, must consider, in addition to respiratory disorders and fever, anosmia, dysgeusia, exhaustion, myalgias and enteric disorders. The frequency of anxiety and depression disorders in the population examined was not higher than that commonly recorded in the same company during periodic checks in the years preceding the epidemic. In COVID-19 cases there was a significant risk of anxiety, especially in those who had low sleep quality. Mental health support and improvement interventions must mainly concern workers with positive tests and should also tend to improve sleep quality. Full article

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19 pages, 1377 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Is Work–Life Balance Arrangement Associated with Organisational Performance? A Meta-Analysis

by Kapo Wong, Alan H. S. Chan and Pei-Lee Teh

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(12), 4446; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17124446 - 21 Jun 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 12851

Abstract

The impacts of the work–life balance arrangement on organisational performance is a growing concern amongst researchers and practitioners. This study synthesised 202 records from 58 published papers to evaluate the relationship between the work–life balance arrangement and organisational performance by means of a [...] Read more.

The impacts of the work–life balance arrangement on organisational performance is a growing concern amongst researchers and practitioners. This study synthesised 202 records from 58 published papers to evaluate the relationship between the work–life balance arrangement and organisational performance by means of a meta-analysis. The organisational performance was measured based on six perspectives, including career motivation, employee attendance, employee recruitment, employee retention, organisational commitment, and productivity. The results showed a positive relationship between the work–life balance arrangement and organisational performance (OR: 1.181, 95% CI: 1.125–1.240, p < 0.001). Of the six perspectives, only career motivation, employee attendance, employee recruitment, and employee retention were significantly associated with the work–life balance arrangement. The moderators affecting the relationship between the work–life balance arrangement and organisational performance were gender, sector, and employee hierarchy. The results provide theoretical suggestions on the effectiveness of the work–life balance arrangement in terms of the six perspectives related to organisational performance. Full article

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12 pages, 768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Crafting Jobs for Occupational Satisfaction and Innovation among Manufacturing Workers Facing the COVID-19 Crisis

by Tianzhou Ren, Lele Cao and Tachia Chin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(11), 3953; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17113953 - 3 Jun 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6246

Abstract

China’s manufacturing employees are confronted with unprecedent occupational and innovation challenges caused by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis coupled with the pressure of being replaced by digital technologies. To gain a better understanding of the rising occupational uncertainty during this critical time, based on [...] Read more.

China’s manufacturing employees are confronted with unprecedent occupational and innovation challenges caused by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis coupled with the pressure of being replaced by digital technologies. To gain a better understanding of the rising occupational uncertainty during this critical time, based on the job demands-resources (JD-R) theory, we examined the associations of employees’ job crafting behaviors (JCB) with their occupational satisfaction and innovation workplace behavior (IWB), as well as the mediating effect of work engagement on the above relationships. The final usable data were obtained from the formal survey of 311 employees of six manufacturing companies that have returned to work amid COVID-19. Structural equation modelling was adopted to analyze the data. Results show that employees’ JCB strengthens their occupational satisfaction and IWB via work engagement. Theoretically, our research enriches the existing body of knowledge about JCB from a cross-disciplinary angle integrating the perspectives of career and psychology. Practically, we offer valuable first-hand evidence about how manufacturing employees conducted JCB to re-orient their careers and to innovate in the face of the high unemployment situation. Full article

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14 pages, 5200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tailoring Safety Training Material to Migrant Farmworkers: An Ergonomic User-Centred Approach

by Federica Caffaro, Giorgia Bagagiolo, Margherita Micheletti Cremasco, Lucia Vigoroso and Eugenio Cavallo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(6), 2104; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17062104 - 22 Mar 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4204

Abstract

Lectures are the most commonly used training method but may not be effective in communicating safety information among migrant workers because of language and cultural barriers. The comprehension of safety information is particularly urgent in highly hazardous sectors such as agriculture, which has [...] Read more.

Lectures are the most commonly used training method but may not be effective in communicating safety information among migrant workers because of language and cultural barriers. The comprehension of safety information is particularly urgent in highly hazardous sectors such as agriculture, which has a high migrant workforce rate. In this study, an ergonomic user-centred approach was adopted to develop and evaluate safety training material targeting migrants employed on Italian farms. Focus groups with both trainers and migrants were carried out to collect information on critical issues in traditional training material, the most and least comprehended topics and suggestions for training improvement. Based on the focus group analysis, the training material was developed considering several visual factors and more engaging interaction between trainers and migrant trainees. The usability of the developed material was then evaluated in a group of 20 migrant farmworkers through a questionnaire assessing the knowledge of safety information before (T0) and after (T1) the training (effectiveness), perceived effort in learning (efficiency) and user satisfaction after training. The results showed improved knowledge, low perceived effort and high satisfaction, pointing to the positive effects of active user involvement when designing targeted training materials. Full article

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17 pages, 1225 KiB

Open AccessReview

Consequences of Circadian Disruption in Shift Workers on Chrononutrition and their Psychosocial Well-Being

by Nor Amira Syahira Mohd Azmi, Norsham Juliana, Nur Islami Mohd Fahmi Teng, Sahar Azmani, Srijit Das and Nadia Effendy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(6), 2043; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17062043 - 19 Mar 2020

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 15917

Abstract

The workers and employees in various institutions are subjected to different shifts and work schedules. The employees work not only at daytime but also during odd hours at night. The biological clock of an individual is often altered during night shifts. This affects [...] Read more.

The workers and employees in various institutions are subjected to different shifts and work schedules. The employees work not only at daytime but also during odd hours at night. The biological clock of an individual is often altered during night shifts. This affects the psychosocial well-being and circadian nutritional intake of the worker. Disturbance in circadian rhythm results in the development of metabolic disorders such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, dysglycemia, and abdominal obesity. In the present review, we discuss the nature of shift work, sleep/wake cycle of an individual, chrononutrition, dietary habits, and meal changes with regard to timing and frequency, related to shift work. We also discuss the relationship between nutritional intake and psychosocial well-being among shift workers. The review may be beneficial for prevention of metabolic disorders and maintaining sound psychological condition in shift workers. Full article

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7 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personality Factors and Sick Leave Days. Evidence from a Nationally Representative Longitudinal Study in Germany.

by Yulia I. Raynik, Hans-Helmut König and André Hajek

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17031089 - 9 Feb 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2786

Abstract

Background: The question of whether employees’ sickness absence from the workplace depends on personality has been researched. Existing evidence mostly stems from cross-sectional studies, mainly showing that personality factors were not associated with the number of sick leave days, except for neuroticism, which [...] Read more.

Background: The question of whether employees’ sickness absence from the workplace depends on personality has been researched. Existing evidence mostly stems from cross-sectional studies, mainly showing that personality factors were not associated with the number of sick leave days, except for neuroticism, which was positively associated with sick leave days. Based on the above, it remains an under researched question whether intraindividual changes in personality factors are associated with changes in sick leave days. Thus, based on a nationally representative sample, the current study aimed to investigate the relationship between personality factors and sick leave days longitudinally based on a nationally representative sample of individuals in Germany. Methods: The present study used data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (GSOEP), a longitudinal survey of private households in Germany. Information from the years 2005, 2009, 2013 were used. The Big Five Inventory-GSOEP (BFI-S) was used to measure personality. Sick leave days in the preceding year were recorded. Poisson fixed effects regressions were used. Results: Adjusting for potential confounders, regressions showed that increases in neuroticism were associated with increased sick leave days. The longitudinal association between extraversion and sick leave days was marginally significant (p < 0.10). Other personality factors were not significantly associated with sick leave days. In addition, sick leave days increased with worsening self-rated health, presence of severe disability and increasing age. Conclusions: The findings of the current study highlight the association between neuroticism and sick leave days longitudinally. Further research is required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Full article

18 pages, 4082 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome and Its Relationship with Ergonomic and Individual Factors in Presbyopic VDT Workers Using Progressive Addition Lenses

by Mar Sánchez-Brau, Begoña Domenech-Amigot, Francisco Brocal-Fernández, Jose Antonio Quesada-Rico and Mar Seguí-Crespo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17031003 - 5 Feb 2020

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 8002

Abstract

This cross-sectional study estimated computer vision syndrome (CVS) prevalence and analysed its relationship with video display terminal (VDT) exposure, as well as sociodemographic, refractive, environmental, and ergonomic characteristics in 109 presbyopic VDT workers wearing progressive addition lenses (PALs). Usual spectacles were measured with [...] Read more.

This cross-sectional study estimated computer vision syndrome (CVS) prevalence and analysed its relationship with video display terminal (VDT) exposure, as well as sociodemographic, refractive, environmental, and ergonomic characteristics in 109 presbyopic VDT workers wearing progressive addition lenses (PALs). Usual spectacles were measured with a lens analyser, and subjective refraction was performed by an optometrist. CVS was measured with the CVS-Q©. VDT exposure was collected. Ergonomic evaluations were conducted in a normal working posture looking at the screen. Air temperature and relative humidity were measured (thermohygrometer), and illumination was measured (luxmeter). Descriptive analysis and differences in CVS prevalence, as a function of the explanatory variables, were performed (chi-square test). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with CVS (OR and 95% CI). The mean age was 54.0 ± 4.8 years, and 43.1% were women. The mean hours of VDT use at work was 6.5 ± 1.3 hours/day. The prevalence of CVS was 74.3%. CVS was significantly associated with women (OR 3.40; 95% CI, 1.12–10.33), non-neutral neck posture (OR 3.27; 95% CI, 1.03–10.41) and altered workplace lighting (OR 3.64; 95% CI, 1.22–10.81). Providing training and information to workers regarding the importance of adequate lighting and ergonomic postures during VDT use is advised to decrease CVS and increase workplace quality of life. Full article

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8 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occupational Determinants of Leptospirosis among Urban Service Workers

by Azman Atil, Mohammad Saffree Jeffree, Syed Sharizman Syed Abdul Rahim, Mohd Rohaizat Hassan, Khamisah Awang Lukman and Kamruddin Ahmed

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17020427 - 8 Jan 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3691

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the risk factors of leptospirosis infection among local urban service workers in Sabah. This is a cross-sectional study involving 394 workers in Kota Kinabalu City, Sabah, conducted from February to March 2017. Information on demography, occupational [...] Read more.

This study was carried out to determine the risk factors of leptospirosis infection among local urban service workers in Sabah. This is a cross-sectional study involving 394 workers in Kota Kinabalu City, Sabah, conducted from February to March 2017. Information on demography, occupational exposures and environmental factors was obtained by a modified validated questionnaire. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used to determine the prevalence of positive leptospirae. The overall figure for positive leptospirae was 9.4% (95% CI: 6.8–12.8). Urban sweepers and lorry drivers made up the highest proportion of positive leptospirae respondents, contributing 15.5% and 9.4%, respectively. The significant risk factors for positive leptospirae were older age (p-value = 0.001), higher monthly salary (p-value = 0.039), longer duration of employment (p-value = 0.011) and working as an urban sweeper (p-value = 0.021). Leptospirae was prevalent among healthy urban service workers and relates to their working activities. Full article

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16 pages, 477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Impact of Selected Physical Environmental Factors on the Health of Employees: Creating a Classification Model Using a Decision Tree

by Miriam Andrejiová, Miriama Piňosová, Ružena Králiková, Bystrík Dolník, Pavol Liptai and Erika Dolníková

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(24), 5080; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16245080 - 12 Dec 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2878

Abstract

During the process of designing and implementing a working environment, there is a need to guarantee adequate conditions for future workers’ health and well-being. This article addresses the classification of employees characterized by several basic input variables (gender, age, class of work). The [...] Read more.

During the process of designing and implementing a working environment, there is a need to guarantee adequate conditions for future workers’ health and well-being. This article addresses the classification of employees characterized by several basic input variables (gender, age, class of work). The investigated variable was the health of employees. This article aims to create a prediction classification model using the classification tree, which can be used to classify new cases into appropriate classes as accurately as possible. Objective measurements of microclimatic parameters were performed by the Testo 435 instrument. The subjective evaluation was performed by a questionnaire survey formed from the training group of 80 respondents and independently verified by the test group of 80 more respondents. The result confusion matrix shows that the number of correctly classified respondents was 69 from a total of 80 respondents. The overall accuracy was

A_{C} = 0.863

, which means that the likelihood that respondents are properly classified in the correct health class is 86.3%. Based on the model obtained using the classification tree, we can classify respondents into the relevant class for their state of health. The respondent is classified into the class of work for which particular health and working conditions are most likely. Full article

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18 pages, 9300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Slip and Fall Incidents at Work: A Visual Analytics Analysis of the Research Domain

by Jie Li, Floris Goerlandt and Kai Way Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(24), 4972; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16244972 - 6 Dec 2019

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5206

Abstract

Slip and fall incidents at work remain an important class of injury and fatality causing mechanisms. An extensive body of safety research has accumulated on this topic. This article presents an analysis of this research domain. Two bibliometric visualization tools are applied: VOSviewer [...] Read more.

Slip and fall incidents at work remain an important class of injury and fatality causing mechanisms. An extensive body of safety research has accumulated on this topic. This article presents an analysis of this research domain. Two bibliometric visualization tools are applied: VOSviewer and HistCite. Samples of 618 slip and fall related articles are obtained from the Web of Science database. Networks of institutions, authors, terms, and chronological citation relationships are established. Collaboration and research activities of the slip and fall research community show that most contributors are from the United States, with the (now closed) Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety the most influential research organization. The results of a term clustering analysis show that the slip and fall research can be grouped into three sub-domains: epidemiology, gait/biomechanics, and tribology. Of these, early research focused mainly on tribology, whereas research on gait/biomechanics and epidemiological studies are relatively more recent. Psychological aspects of slip and fall incident occurrence represent a relatively under-investigated research topic, in which future contributions may provide new insights and safety improvements. Better linking of this research domain with other principles and methods in safety science, such as safety management and resilience, may also present valuable future development paths. Full article

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7 pages, 311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occupational Precariousness of Nursing Staff in Catalonia’s Public and Private Nursing Homes

by Ana Mari Fité-Serra, Montserrat Gea-Sánchez, Álvaro Alconada-Romero, José Tomás Mateos, Joan Blanco-Blanco, Eva Barallat-Gimeno, Judith Roca-Llobet and Carles Muntaner

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(24), 4921; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16244921 - 5 Dec 2019

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3417

Abstract

Nursing staff who provide care in the nursing homes of Catalonia have more precarious work conditions, including more demanding schedules and work overload, than those in other areas of care. This situation entails two major problems: Detrimental health results for nurses who face [...] Read more.

Nursing staff who provide care in the nursing homes of Catalonia have more precarious work conditions, including more demanding schedules and work overload, than those in other areas of care. This situation entails two major problems: Detrimental health results for nurses who face psychosocial and physical risks and a negative impact on the care provided to patients, with a decrease in the quality of care. This study aimed to describe the precarious employment situation of nursing staff in nursing homes. We carried out a descriptive study based on the employment precariousness scale (EPRES), which was administered to a sample of 239 nurses and nursing assistants working in public and private nursing homes in Catalonia. The highest level of job insecurity occurred among nursing assistants and in privately managed nursing homes. The precariousness of the working conditions of nursing staff poses a risk both to the workers themselves and to the people they tend to. For this reason, there is a need for greater knowledge on the scale of the problem and the implementation of appropriate legislative measures to alleviate it. Full article

12 pages, 477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Association Between Fitness Test Scores and Musculoskeletal Injury in Police Officers

by Liana Lentz, Jason R. Randall, Christine A. Guptill, Douglas P. Gross, Ambikaipakan Senthilselvan and Donald Voaklander

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(23), 4667; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16234667 - 23 Nov 2019

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4550

Abstract

A police officer’s career is hazardous and physically demanding. In order to perform occupational tasks effectively and without injury, officers require adequate physical abilities. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between scores on several fitness tests and musculoskeletal injury [...] Read more.

A police officer’s career is hazardous and physically demanding. In order to perform occupational tasks effectively and without injury, officers require adequate physical abilities. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between scores on several fitness tests and musculoskeletal injury in a group of municipal police officers. This retrospective study used existing data to examine the relationship between risk of injury and fitness test performance. Injured and uninjured police officers scored significantly differently on several fitness measures. A multivariate regression indicated that a combination of age, sex, number of pull ups completed and maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max) best explained injury risk. Additionally, the findings indicated an interaction between sex and VO_2max, and so the effect of VO_2max on injury risk cannot be understood without accounting for sex. Full article

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14 pages, 1577 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation and Ergonomic Evaluation of Welders’ Standing Posture Using Jack Software

by Yongbao Zhang, Xiang Wu, Jingqi Gao, Jianwu Chen and Xun Xv

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(22), 4354; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16224354 - 7 Nov 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4493

Abstract

Ergonomics research strives to make workers’ labor more efficient, safer, and more comfortable. Therefore, six digital humans and welding torch model were built and evaluated based on the Jack software in order to improve the ergonomics of welders’ standing postures. Three sets of [...] Read more.

Ergonomics research strives to make workers’ labor more efficient, safer, and more comfortable. Therefore, six digital humans and welding torch model were built and evaluated based on the Jack software in order to improve the ergonomics of welders’ standing postures. Three sets of standing welding actions were designed: walking, raising arm, and contracting arm. Through the Lower Back Analysis, Ovako Working Posture Analysis, Comfort Assessment, and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment, this paper evaluated the optimum range of the weight of the welding torch, the upper limb posture, and the neck posture of the welder. Firstly, the results show that Chinese welders should not use a welding torch with a weight of more than 6 kg when standing up. Secondly, for adult males in the 5th, 50th, 95th percentile of body size, the best operating distance is 321 mm, 371 mm, and 421 mm, respectively, and the best operating height is 1050 mm, 1100 mm, and 1150 mm, respectively; for females in the same percentiles, the optimal operating distance is 271 mm, 321 mm, and 371 mm, respectively, and the optimal operating height is 1000 mm, 1050 mm, and 1100 mm, respectively. Moreover, the horizontal and vertical rotation angle of the welder’s neck should not exceed 15° and 8.7°. The adjustment strategy not only has a positive effect on improving welders’ operational posture and preventing fatigue and injury to the welder, but it also develops research ideas for promoting safety from the perspective of ergonomics. Full article

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12 pages, 288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Deaths in Australia from Work-Related Heat Stress, 2000–2015

by Richard Gun

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(19), 3601; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16193601 - 26 Sep 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3493

Abstract

The infrequency of deaths from work-related heat stress may be due to self-pacing, whereby workers adjust their work rate in response to thermal discomfort. Thirteen cases attributed after coronial investigation to work-related heat stress were studied to evaluate the causal contribution of environmental [...] Read more.

The infrequency of deaths from work-related heat stress may be due to self-pacing, whereby workers adjust their work rate in response to thermal discomfort. Thirteen cases attributed after coronial investigation to work-related heat stress were studied to evaluate the causal contribution of environmental and personal risk factors. Meteorological records and coronial records were examined to estimate environmental and metabolic heat loads and to identify any personal risk factors likely to have contributed to death. Seven deaths occurred in workers within one week of hiring, demonstrating not only the importance of acclimatisation but also the likelihood of compromised self-pacing in recently-hired workers. Personal risk factors identified included intercurrent illness, cardiovascular disease and obesity. Four deaths occurred following indoor work, where the probable critical risk parameter was low air velocity. Cerebral and pulmonary oedema were reported in some autopsy reports, and uncal herniation was found in one case. Modified work rates and close supervision are essential in recently-hired workers. The risk of death from raised intracranial pressure suggests the need for specific remediation of cerebral oedema in hyperthermic individuals. Full article

17 pages, 1743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Patterns of Information and Communication Technologies Usage at Work and Their Relationships with Visual Discomfort and Musculoskeletal Diseases: Results of a Cross-Sectional Study of Spanish Organizations

by María Soria-Oliver, Jorge S. López, Fermín Torrano, Guillermo García-González and Ángel Lara

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(17), 3166; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16173166 - 30 Aug 2019

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3360

Abstract

This cross-sectional study analyses the usage patterns of the new communication and information technologies (ICTs) and their relationship with visual discomfort and musculoskeletal diseases in an intentional sample of 1259 workers of Spanish organizations. The usage pattern with the greatest incidence of visual [...] Read more.

This cross-sectional study analyses the usage patterns of the new communication and information technologies (ICTs) and their relationship with visual discomfort and musculoskeletal diseases in an intentional sample of 1259 workers of Spanish organizations. The usage pattern with the greatest incidence of visual and muscular-skeletal disorders, especially in the wrist and neck, combines the use of laptops and desktops during long working hours. However, the group of workers primarily using mobile devices and working mostly at mobile posts does not appear to be particularly vulnerable to the musculoskeletal diseases and visual fatigue. The ratio of taking a short pause per hour and the implantation of certain technical and preventive measures is related to lower incidence of disorders in the workers as a whole. Current usage of ICTs is very complex and should be addressed using empirical analysis of the different forms of usage and their impacts on health. Full article

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17 pages, 949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Subjective Well-Being Challenge in the Accounting Profession: The Role of Job Resources

by Horacio Molina-Sánchez, Antonio Ariza-Montes, Mar Ortiz-Gómez and Antonio Leal-Rodríguez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(17), 3073; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16173073 - 23 Aug 2019

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5526

Abstract

The main activity of the accountant is the preparation and audit of the financial information of a company. The subjective well-being of the accountant is important to ensure a balanced professional judgment and to offer a positive image of the profession in the [...] Read more.

The main activity of the accountant is the preparation and audit of the financial information of a company. The subjective well-being of the accountant is important to ensure a balanced professional judgment and to offer a positive image of the profession in the face of the incorporation and retention of talent. However, accountants are subjected to intense pressures that affect their well-being in the performance of their tasks. In this paper, the job demands–resources theoretical framework is adopted to analyze the relationships between job demands, job resources, and the subjective well-being of a large sample of 739 accounting experts at the European level. Applying a structural equations model, the results confirm, on the one hand, the direct effects provided in the theoretical framework and, on the other, a new mediating role of job demands–subjective well-being relationship resources. Full article

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26 pages, 384 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work Fatigue in a Non-Deployed Military Setting: Assessment, Prevalence, Predictors, and Outcomes

by Michael R. Frone and Ann-Renee Blais

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(16), 2892; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16162892 - 13 Aug 2019

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5214

Abstract

Although work fatigue represents an important issue among military personnel in combat settings, little attention has been paid to work fatigue in the non-deployed setting. This issue was addressed by (a) validating the Three-Dimensional Work Fatigue Inventory (3D-WFI) among non-deployed military personnel, (b) [...] Read more.

Although work fatigue represents an important issue among military personnel in combat settings, little attention has been paid to work fatigue in the non-deployed setting. This issue was addressed by (a) validating the Three-Dimensional Work Fatigue Inventory (3D-WFI) among non-deployed military personnel, (b) assessing the prevalence of work fatigue in a non-deployed setting, and (c) exploring several potential predictors and outcomes of work fatigue in this setting. Data came from a large national probability sample (N = 1375) of non-deployed Royal Canadian Air Force military personnel. Results demonstrated that the 3D-WFI provided a psychometrically sound assessment of physical, mental, and emotional work fatigue among military personnel, which was invariant across sex, age, military component, and military role. All three types of work fatigue were highly prevalent among military personnel in a non-deployed setting. In terms of predictors, job demands were positively associated, and distributive justice, perceived organizational support, physical activity and sleep quality were negatively associated with each type of work fatigue, whereas role ambiguity was positively associated with mental and emotional work fatigue, and interpersonal justice was negatively associated with physical and emotional fatigue. Abusive supervision and sleep quantity were unrelated to work fatigue. In terms of outcomes, the three types of fatigue were positively associated with workplace cognitive failures and work-to-family conflict. In contrast, mental and emotional work fatigue were negatively related to military morale and positively associated with turnover intentions. This study demonstrates that work fatigue is a critical issue among military personnel in non-deployed settings, and an essential issue for military policy development. Full article

12 pages, 6240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of an Improved Model for Accident Analysis: A Case Study

by Jianhao Wang and Mingwei Yan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(15), 2756; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16152756 - 2 Aug 2019

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4621

Abstract

An improved accident causation model which demonstrates the relationships among different causal factors was proposed in this study. It provides a pathway for accident analysis from the individual level to the organizational level. Unsafe acts and conditions determined by individuals’ poor safety knowledge, [...] Read more.

An improved accident causation model which demonstrates the relationships among different causal factors was proposed in this study. It provides a pathway for accident analysis from the individual level to the organizational level. Unsafe acts and conditions determined by individuals’ poor safety knowledge, low safety awareness, bad safety habits, etc. are the immediate causes of an accident. Deficiencies in safety management systems and safety culture remain the root causes, which can cause consequences at the individual level. Moreover, the weaknesses of an organization’s safety culture can have a great impact on the formation of a good safety climate and can further lead to poor decision-making and implementation of procedures in the safety management system. In order to contribute to a better perception and understanding of the accident causation model, one typical case in the process industry, the oil leak and explosion of the Sinopec Donghuang pipelines, was selected for this study. The causality from immediate causes to root causes is demonstrated in sequence and can be shown in this model explicitly and logically. Several important lessons are summarized from the results and targeted measures can be taken to avoid similar mistakes in the future. This model provides a clear and resourceful method for the safety and risk practitioner’s toolkit in accident investigation and analysis, and the organization can use it as a tool to conduct staff trainings and thus to keep accidents under control. Full article

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15 pages, 328 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Work-Family Balance Policy for Enhancing Social Sustainability: A Choice Experiment Analysis of Koreans in their Twenties and Thirties

by Inha Oh, Won-Sik Hwang and Hong Jun Yoon

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(14), 2553; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16142553 - 17 Jul 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3037

Abstract

Korea is facing problems, such as inequality within society and an aging population, that places a burden on public health expenditure. The active adoption of policies that promote work-family balance (WFB), such as parental leave and workplace childcare centers, is known to help [...] Read more.

Korea is facing problems, such as inequality within society and an aging population, that places a burden on public health expenditure. The active adoption of policies that promote work-family balance (WFB), such as parental leave and workplace childcare centers, is known to help solve these problems. However, there has, as yet, been little quantitative evidence accumulated to support this notion. This study used the choice experiment methodology on 373 Koreans in their twenties and thirties, to estimate the level of utility derived from work-family balance policies. The results show that willingness to pay for parental leave was found to be valued at 7.81 million Korean won, while it was 4.83 million won for workplace childcare centers. In particular, WFB policies were found to benefit workers of lower socioeconomic status or belonging to disadvantaged groups, such as women, those with low education levels, and those with low incomes. Furthermore, the utility derived from WFB policies was found to be greater among those who desire children compared to those who do not. The results suggest that the proactive introduction of WFB policies will help solve problems such as inequality within society and population aging. Full article

9 pages, 1188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Software Can Increase Sit–Stand Desk Transitions During Active Computer Use

by Pankaj Sharma, Adam Pickens, Ranjana Mehta, Gang Han and Mark E. Benden

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(13), 2438; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16132438 - 9 Jul 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5349

Abstract

The objective use of table top adjustable sit–stand desks has yet to be determined, due to the lack of an effective digital evaluation method. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of computer prompt software on table top sit–stand desks [...] Read more.

The objective use of table top adjustable sit–stand desks has yet to be determined, due to the lack of an effective digital evaluation method. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of computer prompt software on table top sit–stand desks to determine if there was a difference in the frequency of desk position changes. This five month, pre-post pilot study on 47 university staff members used a novel USB accelerometer sensor and computer software reminders to continuously record and prompt increases in desk usage to promote physical activity at the workstation. During the baseline phase (3 months), desk usage data were continuously recorded for all workers. Following the baseline, the results from a two-month intervention of personalized computer reminders doubled the number of desk position changes per work day from 1 desk position change every 2 work days to 1 change every work day. Furthermore, those who changed desk positions once or twice a day increased from 4% to 36% from baseline to intervention. Overall, the intervention was encouraging, but longer intervention studies are warranted to determine if the desk usage behavior change can be improved and sustained for years and whether that change results in health gains. Full article

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22 pages, 701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coworking Spaces: The Better Home Office? A Psychosocial and Health-Related Perspective on an Emerging Work Environment

by Swantje Robelski, Helena Keller, Volker Harth and Stefanie Mache

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(13), 2379; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16132379 - 4 Jul 2019

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 20008

Abstract

With the ongoing flexibilization of work, new trends concerning work outside the company’s premises such as coworking spaces are on the rise. Coworking spaces are designed to offer collaboration and community in furnished and equipped workspaces on a rental base. There is a [...] Read more.

With the ongoing flexibilization of work, new trends concerning work outside the company’s premises such as coworking spaces are on the rise. Coworking spaces are designed to offer collaboration and community in furnished and equipped workspaces on a rental base. There is a growing body of scientific literature on coworking spaces with empirical results of qualitative and quantitative research. The present study adds to the latter by examining psychosocial demands experienced by coworkers in Germany based on a quantitative survey (n = 112). Among coworkers the home office was or still is another frequently used workplace. However, can the coworking space be seen as a better alternative to the home office in terms of work- and performance-related, social, environmental and health-related aspects? Results showed moderate to low psychosocial demands regarding quantitative workloads. Compared to the home office, the coworking space proved to be the preferred work arrangement. Results are discussed with regard to current literature and workplace design. In conclusion, coworking spaces can be seen as an alternative to the home office that was highly valued in the present sample. It is recommended to further emphasize aspects of work environment and ergonomics in order to create health-promoting and satisfying workplaces. Full article

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11 pages, 1311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Lifting of Two Types of Barrels on Postural Control, Trunk Muscle Recruitment, and Kinematic Measures in Manual Workers

by Amanda M.S. Cavaguchi, Márcio R. Oliveira, Christiane G. Macedo, Pablo E.A. de Souza, Andreo F. Aguiar, Mathieu Dallaire, Suzy Ngomo and Rubens A. da Silva

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(12), 2183; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16122183 - 20 Jun 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3700

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of 2 types of beer barrels on postural control, trunk activation, and kinematic measures in adult workers. Twelve (12) males randomly performed 4 tasks on a force platform for 20 s: (1) hold [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of 2 types of beer barrels on postural control, trunk activation, and kinematic measures in adult workers. Twelve (12) males randomly performed 4 tasks on a force platform for 20 s: (1) hold an empty recyclable barrel, (2) hold a full recyclable barrel (30 L), (3) hold an empty steel barrel, and (4) hold a full steel barrel (30 L). Trunk muscular activation, force platform and kinematic measures at the trunk, hip, and knee joints were computed. The full steel barrel produced greater postural oscillation than other conditions. Higher trunk activity was also reported during the full steel barrel task. Significant kinematic changes only in the trunk were observed between the empty steel barrel and the full recyclable barrel tasks. In conclusion, the full steel barrel produced a negative impact on postural control, increasing trunk activity and changing trunk flexion angle in adult workers. Full article

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16 pages, 817 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of an Interdisciplinary Approach to Promote Workers Global Health Status in the Oil Industry, Brazil (2006–2015)

by Lilian Monteiro Ferrari Viterbo, Maria Alzira Pimenta Dinis, Diogo Guedes Vidal and André Santana Costa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(12), 2148; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16122148 - 17 Jun 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3778

Abstract

This study intends to analyse the behaviour of epidemiological variables of workers in an oil industry of Bahia, Brazil, before and after implementation of interdisciplinary practices in occupational health assessments between 2006 and 2015. This is a retrospective longitudinal study carried out in [...] Read more.

This study intends to analyse the behaviour of epidemiological variables of workers in an oil industry of Bahia, Brazil, before and after implementation of interdisciplinary practices in occupational health assessments between 2006 and 2015. This is a retrospective longitudinal study carried out in two time periods. Data were collected from the workers electronic medical record and time trends were analysed before (2006–2010) and after (2011–2015) the implementation of the interdisciplinary practices focusing on health promotion. The data were complementarily compared to a control group from the same industry. A statistically significant reduction for data on the number of smokers, periodontal disease and of days away from work was obtained. A significant increase in the number of physically active subjects was also observed. While not statistically significant, a reduction in the number of workers with obesity and overweight, with caries and altered glycemia, was identified. Coronary risk and high blood pressure indicators have shown aggravation. It can be concluded that an interdisciplinary health approach during the annual occupational assessments, with action directed to the population needs, can be associated with the improvement of the health indicators assessed, contributing to increased worker productivity in the oil industry. Full article

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22 pages, 1154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Long Working Hours and Overtime on Occupational Health: A Meta-Analysis of Evidence from 1998 to 2018

by Kapo Wong, Alan H. S. Chan and S. C. Ngan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(12), 2102; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16122102 - 13 Jun 2019

Cited by 216 | Viewed by 36735

Abstract

There has been no subsequent meta-analysis examining the effects of long working hours on health or occupational health since 1997. Therefore, this paper aims to conduct a meta-analysis covering studies after 1997 for a comparison. A total of 243 published records were extracted [...] Read more.

There has been no subsequent meta-analysis examining the effects of long working hours on health or occupational health since 1997. Therefore, this paper aims to conduct a meta-analysis covering studies after 1997 for a comparison. A total of 243 published records were extracted from electronic databases. The effects were measured by five conditions, namely, physiological health (PH), mental health (MH), health behaviours (HB), related health (RH), and nonspecified health (NH). The overall odds ratio between long working hours and occupational health was 1.245 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.195–1.298). The condition of related health constituted the highest odds ratio value (1.465, 95% CI: 1.332–1.611). The potential moderators were study method, cut-point for long weekly working hours, and country of origin. Long working hours were shown to adversely affect the occupational health of workers. The management on safeguarding the occupational health of workers working long hours should be reinforced. Full article

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16 pages, 1822 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Personal Occupational Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields in Libraries and Media Libraries, Using Calibrated On-Body Exposimeters

by Amelie Massardier-Pilonchery, Elena Nerrière, Sophie Croidieu, Fabien Ndagijimana, François Gaudaire, Christophe Martinsons, Nicolas Noé and Martine Hours

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(12), 2087; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16122087 - 13 Jun 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3263

Abstract

Background and Objectives: With the spread of Wifi networks, safety concerns have arisen, with complaints of somatic disorders, notably in traditional libraries and media libraries. The aim of the present study was to describe the conditions and levels of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: With the spread of Wifi networks, safety concerns have arisen, with complaints of somatic disorders, notably in traditional libraries and media libraries. The aim of the present study was to describe the conditions and levels of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields in the real-life occupational conditions of those working in traditional libraries and media libraries. Methods: Dynamic measurements, using an exposimeter, were taken in 20 radiofrequency bands from 88 to 5850 MHz. The activity of 28 library workers was analyzed on a space-time budget. An audit of exposure sources and static measurements enabled the work-places to be mapped. Results: In seven libraries, 78,858 samples were taken over the 20 radiofrequency bands from 88 to 5850 MHz. Exposure was described for 28 working days. The median total field was 0.071 V/m (10th percentile: 0.022 V/m, 90th percentile: 0.534 V/m) and for Wifi the median field was 0.005 V/m (10th percentile: 0.005 V/m, 90th percentile: 0.028 V/m). Median individual exposure to Wifi frequency waves ranged from 0.005 to 0.040 V/m. Conclusions: Overall, the occupational exposure in this sector was close to the exposure in the general population. Peaks were due to the use of walkie-talkies by security staff. Exposure due to external sources depended on geographic location. Exposure in this occupation is well below the general occupational exposure levels, notably as regards Wifi. Full article

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21 pages, 1653 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Engagement Go Awry and Lead to Burnout? The Moderating Role of the Perceived Motivational Climate

by Christina G. L. Nerstad, Sut I Wong and Astrid M. Richardsen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(11), 1979; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16111979 - 4 Jun 2019

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8932

Abstract

In this study, we propose that when employees become too engaged, they may become burnt out due to resource depletion. We further suggest that this negative outcome is contingent upon the perceived motivational psychological climate (mastery and performance climates) at work. A two-wave [...] Read more.

In this study, we propose that when employees become too engaged, they may become burnt out due to resource depletion. We further suggest that this negative outcome is contingent upon the perceived motivational psychological climate (mastery and performance climates) at work. A two-wave field study of 1081 employees revealed an inverted U-shaped relationship between work engagement and burnout. This finding suggests that employees with too much work engagement may be exposed to a higher risk of burnout. Further, a performance climate, with its emphasis on social comparison, may enhance—and a mastery climate, which focuses on growth, cooperation and effort, may mitigate the likelihood that employees become cynical towards work—an important dimension of burnout. Full article

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14 pages, 2439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emergency Evacuation Plan for Hazardous Chemicals Leakage Accidents Using GIS-based Risk Analysis Techniques in South Korea

by Byungtae Yoo and Sang D. Choi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(11), 1948; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16111948 - 1 Jun 2019

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 7084

Abstract

Despite improvements in chemical safety management systems, incidents involving the release of hazardous chemicals continue to happen. In some cases, they result in the evacuation of residents. For hazardous chemical release accidents, an evacuation plan needs to be selective enough to consider both [...] Read more.

Despite improvements in chemical safety management systems, incidents involving the release of hazardous chemicals continue to happen. In some cases, they result in the evacuation of residents. For hazardous chemical release accidents, an evacuation plan needs to be selective enough to consider both the indoor and outdoor concentrations of nearby buildings and the time in which the maximum allowable concentration may occur. In this study, a real-time risk analysis tool was developed based on the geographic information system (GIS) in order to establish the emergency response and risk communication plan for effectively assisting decision-making personnel. A selective evacuation plan was also established by a proposed assessment module considering the indoor/outdoor pollution concentration of buildings and the release duration time of chlorine gas leakage. The GIS-based simulated modules were performed based on eleven buildings of Ulsan city, located near an industrial cluster and home to a high population density. As a result of the simulated real-time risk assessment, only four buildings were affected by chlorine gas concentration according to wind direction and diffusion time. In addition, it was considered effective to establish an indoor/outdoor evacuation plan as opposed to an outdoor evacuation plan which is outside the range of the damage. Subsequently, an emergency evacuation plan was established with the concentration of a hazardous chemical according to the decision-making matrix. This study can enlighten the real-time emergency risk assessment based on GIS while effectively supporting the emergency action plans in response to the release of hazardous chemicals in clustered plants and the community. Full article

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23 pages, 709 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Factors and the Corresponding Interactions That Influence Construction Worker Safety Performance from a Competency-Model-Based Perspective: Evidence from Scaffolders in China

by Kongzheng Liang, Ivan Wing Hong Fung, Chaohua Xiong and Hanbin Luo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(11), 1885; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16111885 - 28 May 2019

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5824

Abstract

Purpose: Construction workers’ reactions to safety-related issues during operation vary from person to person due to their different occupational levels, which can be attributed to various influencing factors and their correspondingly complicated interactions. This research aims to propose an integrated framework to combine [...] Read more.

Purpose: Construction workers’ reactions to safety-related issues during operation vary from person to person due to their different occupational levels, which can be attributed to various influencing factors and their correspondingly complicated interactions. This research aims to propose an integrated framework to combine the concepts of these factors and provide a holistic interpretation of the interrelationship among them. Methods: Based on items that were mainly extracted from competency theory, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to identify the critical factors from the data collected from 243 scaffolders on Wuhan Metro construction sites. The interactions among the identified factors were then analyzed, and the safety competency model was thus established with the use of structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: A total of 17 items were identified as critical to workers’ safety competency, and these were further tested and attributed to four factors: (1) individual character and inclination; (2) self-adjustment and adaptability; (3) working attitudes; (4) safety-related operation qualification. Subsequent analysis showed that all the factors significantly contributed to one’s safety competency, and individual character and inclination contributed most to the formation of one’s ability, while the intermediating effects of self-adjustment and adaptability should not be neglected both in theoretical and practical terms. The resultant safety competency model consisting of these four factors was revealed to share a hierarchical structure with the classical competency model. Significance: This study provided an integrated theoretical framework and a set of modeling approaches to combine the related concepts and facilitate a greater understanding of construction safety in terms of workers’ characteristics and behaviors. Practical implications: This study presented a tentative approach for assessing construction workers’ safety competency, as well as emphasized to the managers and professionals the necessity of developing training systems to ensure workers are integrated into a crew in an appropriate and smooth manner. Limitations and Future Work: The volume and the scope of samples impeded the study from achieving a more generalized result and a more cost-efficient data collection approach is in need of development for a comprehensive and in-depth investigation. Full article

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12 pages, 498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work Ability among Italian Bank Video Display Terminal Operators: Socio-Demographic, Lifestyle, and Occupational Correlates

by Giacomo Garzaro, Ilaria Sottimano, Matteo Di Maso, Enrico Bergamaschi, Maurizio Coggiola, Daniela Converso, Sergio Iavicoli, Enrico Pira and Sara Viotti

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(9), 1653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16091653 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3892

Abstract

Bank employees, especially video display terminal (VDT) operators, are constantly exposed to various occupational risks, such as the adoption of awkward postures, repetitive finger movements, and utilization of software with poor usability, which may lead to computer visual syndrome, tension headache, lower back [...] Read more.

Bank employees, especially video display terminal (VDT) operators, are constantly exposed to various occupational risks, such as the adoption of awkward postures, repetitive finger movements, and utilization of software with poor usability, which may lead to computer visual syndrome, tension headache, lower back pain, and/or stress, which compromises their overall health and work ability (WA). Thus, in this cross-sectional study, we aimed to establish that the determinants among socio-demographic, lifestyle, and occupational characteristics are associated with impaired WA in bank VDT operators. To this end, we administered a set of socio-demographic, lifestyle, occupational, and Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaires to 2077 Italian bank VDT operators. Univariate linear regression models reveal that their mean WAI score is inversely associated with gender, age, dependent family members, and a part-time job, whereas it is directly associated with the educational level and physical activity. In addition, multivariate analysis shows that their mean WAI score is inversely associated with age and a part-time job, but was directly associated with the educational level, the marital status, and physical activity. Overall, VDT operators working in Italian banks display high WA even though this latter tends to decline with aging. In light of the progressive aging of the workforce in Italy, our results provide the rationale for the design of interventions aimed to mitigate the detrimental effects of aging on WA of bank VDT operators. Full article

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16 pages, 1182 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Working Conditions to Promote Worker Safety, Health, and Wellbeing for Low-Wage Workers: The Workplace Organizational Health Study

by Glorian Sorensen, Susan Peters, Karina Nielsen, Eve Nagler, Melissa Karapanos, Lorraine Wallace, Lisa Burke, Jack T. Dennerlein and Gregory R. Wagner

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(8), 1449; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16081449 - 24 Apr 2019

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 11228

Abstract

This paper addresses a significant gap in the literature by describing a study that tests the feasibility and efficacy of an organizational intervention to improve working conditions, safety, and wellbeing for low-wage food service workers. The Workplace Organizational Health Study tests the hypothesis [...] Read more.

This paper addresses a significant gap in the literature by describing a study that tests the feasibility and efficacy of an organizational intervention to improve working conditions, safety, and wellbeing for low-wage food service workers. The Workplace Organizational Health Study tests the hypothesis that an intervention targeting the work organization and environment will result in improvements in workers’ musculoskeletal disorders and wellbeing. This ongoing study is being conducted in collaboration with a large food service company. Formative evaluation was used to prioritize outcomes, assess working conditions, and define essential intervention elements. The theory-driven intervention is being evaluated in a proof-of-concept trial, conducted to demonstrate feasibility and potential efficacy using a cluster randomized design. Ten worksites were randomly assigned to intervention or control conditions. The 13-month intervention uses a comprehensive systems approach to improve workplace policies and practices. Using principles of participatory engagement, the intervention targets safety and ergonomics; work intensity; and job enrichment. The evaluation will provide a preliminary assessment of estimates of the intervention effect on targeted outcomes and inform understanding of the intervention implementation across worksites. This study is expected to provide insights on methods to improve working conditions in support of the safety and wellbeing of low-wage workers. Full article

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18 pages, 779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Scales to Measure and Analyse the Relationship of Safety Consciousness and Safety Citizenship Behaviour of Construction Workers: An Empirical Study in China

by Xiangcheng Meng, Huaiyuan Zhai and Alan H. S. Chan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(8), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16081411 - 19 Apr 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4645

Abstract

China’s construction industry has experienced a long period of development and reform but compared to developed countries, safety on construction sites in China continues to present serious problems. Safety consciousness and safety citizenship behaviour are influential factors related to safety issues in the [...] Read more.

China’s construction industry has experienced a long period of development and reform but compared to developed countries, safety on construction sites in China continues to present serious problems. Safety consciousness and safety citizenship behaviour are influential factors related to safety issues in the construction industry and may play a direct role in improving the safety of personnel on construction sites. However, recently no research has been focused on the relationship between safety consciousness and safety citizenship behaviour. Therefore, this paper aimed to investigate the relationship between safety consciousness and safety citizenship behaviour for personnel working on construction sites in China by using a questionnaire survey and statistical analysis, so that correlation between safety consciousness and safety citizenship can be demonstrated and effective measures suggested to improve the safety of construction workers in China, and perhaps in other countries as well. Full article

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12 pages, 1045 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Survey of Work-Related Pain Prevalence Among Construction Workers in Hong Kong: A Case-Control Study

by Joanne W.Y. Chung, Henry C.F. So, Vincent C.M. Yan, Phoebe S.T. Kwok, Bonny Y.M. Wong, Jackie Y. Yang and Albert P.C. Chan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(8), 1404; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16081404 - 18 Apr 2019

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6262

Abstract

Construction workers undertake demanding physical work and face high risk of injuries in poor working environments. This case-control study investigated the extent of their musculoskeletal pain incidence at work. A total of 2021 construction workers in different trades were interviewed on-site in a [...] Read more.

Construction workers undertake demanding physical work and face high risk of injuries in poor working environments. This case-control study investigated the extent of their musculoskeletal pain incidence at work. A total of 2021 construction workers in different trades were interviewed on-site in a survey from December 2017 to December 2018. The survey results revealed that the pain prevalence of the subjects in the last 24 h was 10.6 %. The worst and top most common pain spots caused by work were central lower back, left/right shoulders, and knees. Regarding pain management, their most common method was to ignore the pain (21.4%). The average percentage of pain relief after receiving treatment in the 24 h was 37.12%. Besides, significant differences were found between the pain and non-pain groups regarding their employment duration in current job or their average sleep duration in the 24 h. The study showed that those with multiple and bilateral pain sites had pain interference on their living activities. Full article

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13 pages, 890 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Construction Worker Risk-Taking Behavior Model with Individual and Organizational Factors

by Banus Kam Leung Low, Siu Shing Man, Alan Hoi Shou Chan and Saad Alabdulkarim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(8), 1335; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16081335 - 13 Apr 2019

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 7372

Abstract

Behavioral-based safety is an important application of behavioral science that can be used to address safety problems in the construction sector. An understanding of construction worker risk-taking behavior is deemed to be a crucial basis on which concerned authorities and construction companies can [...] Read more.

Behavioral-based safety is an important application of behavioral science that can be used to address safety problems in the construction sector. An understanding of construction worker risk-taking behavior is deemed to be a crucial basis on which concerned authorities and construction companies can develop effective safety interventions to reduce construction accidents. However, no studies have been conducted to examine the effects of safety climate, work condition, attitude toward risk, cognitive bias, and risk perception on construction worker risk-taking behavior through a quantitative approach. Accordingly, this study aims to propose a research model that explains construction worker risk-taking behavior. A total of 188 valid datasets were obtained through a series of questionnaire surveys conducted in representative construction projects in Hong Kong. Confirmatory factor analysis with structural equation modeling was adopted to validate the hypothesized research model. Results show that attitudes toward risk and cognitive bias have a positive influence, whereas risk perception and work conditions have a negative influence on construction worker risk-taking behavior. In addition, safety climate was negatively correlated with construction worker risk-taking behavior. Practical recommendations for reducing construction worker risk-taking behavior are also discussed in this paper. Full article

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13 pages, 2373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strength Decrease, Perceived Physical Exertion and Endurance Time for Backpacking Tasks

by Kai Way Li, Jenn Chun Chu and Ching Chung Chen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(7), 1296; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16071296 - 11 Apr 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3747

Abstract

Manual material handling (MMH) tasks create a burden for workers which could result in musculoskeletal injuries. Assessments of the decrease of muscular strength and the maximum endurance time (MET) for MMH tasks are essential in studying the ergonomic risk of MMH tasks. A [...] Read more.

Manual material handling (MMH) tasks create a burden for workers which could result in musculoskeletal injuries. Assessments of the decrease of muscular strength and the maximum endurance time (MET) for MMH tasks are essential in studying the ergonomic risk of MMH tasks. A backpacking experiment was conducted for measuring the MET for MMH tasks. Human participants carried a load on their back and walked on a treadmill under various load, walking speed, and ramp angle conditions until they coud no longer do so. It was found that the participants were able to walk for approximately 15 min to two hours before they needed to have a pause. Their back and leg strengths declined moderately due to performing the tasks. These tasks resulted in an increase in heart rate and elevated perceived physical exertion. The rating of perceived exertion (RPE)/heart rate ratio in our backpacking tasks was 31% higher than that in the literature, implying the calibration of the RPE may be required for such tasks. A MET model incorporating the f_{MVC_back}, body weight, walking speed, and ramp angle was established. This model may be used to determine the work/rest allowance for backpacking tasks under conditions similar to this study. Full article

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12 pages, 843 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Nature of Job Crafting: Positive and Negative Relations with Job Satisfaction and Work-Family Conflict

by Margherita Zito, Lara Colombo, Laura Borgogni, Antonino Callea, Roberto Cenciotti, Emanuela Ingusci and Claudio Giovanni Cortese

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(7), 1176; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16071176 - 2 Apr 2019

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 8241

Abstract

This study investigated job crafting as mediator and its relation with job satisfaction and work-family conflict, considering job autonomy as antecedent. The research involved 389 participants working in a public organization. A structural equations model was estimated revealing that job autonomy is positively [...] Read more.

This study investigated job crafting as mediator and its relation with job satisfaction and work-family conflict, considering job autonomy as antecedent. The research involved 389 participants working in a public organization. A structural equations model was estimated revealing that job autonomy is positively associated with job crafting and job satisfaction, and negatively associated with work-family conflict. Job crafting is positively related with job satisfaction and work-family conflict, as adverse effect of job crafting. As regards mediated effects, results show positive associations between job autonomy and both job satisfaction and work-family conflict through job crafting. This study contributes to literature, considering positive and negative outcomes, covering the lacking literature on job crafting and work-family conflict, and suggesting implications for employees’ well-being. Full article

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9 pages, 293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stress and Strain among Seafarers Related to the Occupational Groups

by Marcus Oldenburg and Hans-Joachim Jensen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(7), 1153; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16071153 - 30 Mar 2019

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 5855

Abstract

The present study analyses whether the stress and strain experienced by seafarers differ between the various occupational groups on board container ships. In a maritime field study, 323 sailors on 22 container ships were asked to complete a questionnaire and were biometrically surveyed. [...] Read more.

The present study analyses whether the stress and strain experienced by seafarers differ between the various occupational groups on board container ships. In a maritime field study, 323 sailors on 22 container ships were asked to complete a questionnaire and were biometrically surveyed. In addition, a survey of energy expenditure and heart rate (variability) was carried out with the SenseWear^® armband monitor and the Polar RS800 watch, respectively. The activity data objectively collected by the armband monitor showed an average sleep duration of 5.0 h per day, with particularly short sleep episodes amongst nautical officers. This occupational group also significantly more frequently reported sleep deficits (67%). The highest work-related energy expenditure per day was among the deck ratings (801 kcal), followed by the engine room personnel (777 kcal), and finally the nautical officers (568 kcal). The last-mentioned group, who were also the most likely to experience mental stress in the workplace, had the lowest heart rate variability compared to the other occupational groups. The average working time was the only stress parameter that correlated significantly negatively with the heart rate variability (r = −0.387; p = 0.002). Overall, job-related stressors of seafarers on board should be objectified in further studies and occupational group-specific health promotion programmes should be developed. Full article

13 pages, 513 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of A Safety Climate Scale for Geological Prospecting Projects in China

by Xiang Wu, Jingqi Gao, Yuanlong Li and Chunlin Wu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(6), 1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16061082 - 26 Mar 2019

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3540

Abstract

The geological prospecting industry has developed rapidly in China over the past few years. It has made outstanding contributions to the discovery of new mineral resources, new energy sources, and the excavation and utilization of resources. However, geological prospecting projects do not have [...] Read more.

The geological prospecting industry has developed rapidly in China over the past few years. It has made outstanding contributions to the discovery of new mineral resources, new energy sources, and the excavation and utilization of resources. However, geological prospecting projects do not have effective safety management measures at present. Moreover, the geological prospecting project has its own traits and features that differ from other industries, leading to the fact that safety management measures in other industries cannot be used in geological prospecting projects. Therefore, development of an effective safety management measuring tool is urgent and necessary. In recent years, safety climate has drawn great attention from scholars, and research results have been successfully applied in construction, coal mining and other industries. Based on the extensive literature review on safety climate as well as its organizational structure and employees’ individual behavior characteristics, this paper first extracted the factor structure of the safety climate and then developed a safety climate scale for geological prospecting projects. This paper used the methods of exploratory factor analysis and reliability analysis to ensure the developed safety climate scale was valid and reliable. The safety climate scale developed has four dimensions, i.e., project leader’s safety commitment, safety institutions, risk response, and employee’s safety attitude, containing a total of 17 measurable items. This study contributes to the current literature by exploring the factor structure of the safety climate for geological prospecting projects, and further provides a scientific basis for improvements in the geological prospecting industry. Meanwhile, the findings not only provide technical support for investigating and analyzing the safety management levels of the geological prospecting industry, but also contribute to the benchmarking standards among different enterprises and projects. Full article

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19 pages, 787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work-Life Conflict among U.S. Long-Haul Truck Drivers: Influences of Work Organization, Perceived Job Stress, Sleep, and Organizational Support

by Adam Hege, Michael K. Lemke, Yorghos Apostolopoulos, Brian Whitaker and Sevil Sönmez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(6), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16060984 - 19 Mar 2019

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7978

Abstract

Work-life balance and job stress are critical to health and well-being. Long-haul truck driving (LHTD) is among the unhealthiest and most unsafe occupations in the U.S. Despite these disparities, there are no extant published studies examining the influence of work, stress and sleep [...] Read more.

Work-life balance and job stress are critical to health and well-being. Long-haul truck driving (LHTD) is among the unhealthiest and most unsafe occupations in the U.S. Despite these disparities, there are no extant published studies examining the influence of work, stress and sleep outcomes on drivers’ work-life balance. The current study investigated whether adverse work organization, stress, and poor sleep health among LHTDs are significantly associated with work-life conflict. Logistic regression was used to examine how work organization characteristics, job stress, and sleep influenced perceived stress and a composite measure of work-life conflict among a sample of 260 U.S. LHTDs. The pattern of regression results dictated subsequent analyses using structural equation modeling (SEM). Perceived job stress was the only statistically significant predictor for work-life balance. Fast pace of work, sleep duration and sleep quality were predictors of perceived job stress. SEM further elucidated that stress mediates the influences of fast work pace, supervisor/coworker support, and low sleep duration on each of the individual work-life balance indicators. There is an urgent need to address work conditions of LHTDs to better support their health, well-being, and work-life balance. Specifically, the findings from this study illustrate that scheduling practices and sleep outcomes could alleviate job stress and need to be addressed to more effectively support work-life balance. Future research and interventions should focus on policy and systems-level change. Full article

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13 pages, 741 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Model for Promoting Occupational Safety and Health in Taiwan’s Hospitals: An Integrative Approach

by Hui-Ting Huang, Chung-Hung Tsai and Chia-Fen Wang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(5), 882; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16050882 - 11 Mar 2019

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4198

Abstract

Advocating for improving workplace safety and health has gained substantial support in recent years. The medical industry is a high-risk industry and receives considerable public attention. This study used an integrative approach as a starting point and combined the contextual factors of an [...] Read more.

Advocating for improving workplace safety and health has gained substantial support in recent years. The medical industry is a high-risk industry and receives considerable public attention. This study used an integrative approach as a starting point and combined the contextual factors of an organization: perceived organizational support, safety climate, social influence, and shared decision making. Subsequently, the effects of these factors on preventive action and safety satisfaction were investigated. This study surveyed employees of two hospitals, one in Northern Taiwan and one in Eastern Taiwan, collecting valid data from 468 respondents. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to verify our research framework. The finding indicates that (1) All hypotheses proposed in this study were supported. (2) The overall goodness of fit of the model was excellent, and the explained variance of the outcome variables was high. (3) Safety climate had the strongest total effects on preventive action and safety satisfaction simultaneously, whereas preventive action had the strongest direct effect on safety satisfaction. The objective of this study was to obtain empirical conclusions and make suggestions for academic theory and clinical practice. The findings may serve as a reference for future research and for scholars and practitioners, enabling the creation of healthy workplaces and, thus, a brighter future. Full article

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15 pages, 414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Work-Related Factors Associated with Lower Back Musculoskeletal Disorders in Female Shellfish Gatherers in Saubara, Bahia-Brazil

by Maria Carolina Barreto Moreira Couto, Ila Rocha Falcão, Juliana dos Santos Müller, Ivone Batista Alves, Wendel da Silva Viana, Verônica Maria Cadena Lima, Paulo Gilvane Lopes Pena, Courtney Georgette Woods and Rita Franco Rego

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(5), 857; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16050857 - 8 Mar 2019

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4570

Abstract

Lower back musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are an important public health problem and the leading cause of disability worldwide, but with yet unknown prevalence among shellfish gatherers. To investigate the prevalence and work-related factors associated with lower back MSD in a population of female [...] Read more.

Lower back musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are an important public health problem and the leading cause of disability worldwide, but with yet unknown prevalence among shellfish gatherers. To investigate the prevalence and work-related factors associated with lower back MSD in a population of female shellfish gatherers, an epidemiological cross-sectional study was carried out in Saubara, Bahia-Brazil, in 2013. The Brazilian version of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), in addition to a questionnaire containing the physical demands adapted to the artisanal work, were applied to a random sample of 209 female shellfish gatherers. The prevalence of lower back MSD was 72.7%. Using multivariate logistic regression, the shellfish gatherers who had worked for more than 26 years in the activity showed a prevalence of 1.22 (95% CI: 1.04–1.44) times higher compared to those unexposed. Lower back MSD was 1.24 (95% CI: 1.08–1.42) times higher among those more exposed to work sitting with trunk flexion. Those performed manual handling and muscle force with the arms had a prevalence ratio of 1.18 (95% CI: 1.01–1.39). These results show the need for greater awareness of health and social welfare factors impacting workers in small-scale fisheries and will promote the elaboration of health care policies for this occupational class. Full article

9 pages, 748 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supervisor Support, Coworker Support and Presenteeism among Healthcare Workers in China: The Mediating Role of Distributive Justice

by Tianan Yang, Run Lei, Xuan Jin, Yan Li, Yangyang Sun and Jianwei Deng

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(5), 817; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16050817 - 6 Mar 2019

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5935

Abstract

Healthcare workers in China are exposed to extremely high job stress and inequitable work conditions, and the Healthy China 2030 blueprint has made them an important focus of policymakers. To examine the importance of distributive justice in Chinese medical reform, we analyzed data [...] Read more.

Healthcare workers in China are exposed to extremely high job stress and inequitable work conditions, and the Healthy China 2030 blueprint has made them an important focus of policymakers. To examine the importance of distributive justice in Chinese medical reform, we analyzed data from 1542 healthcare workers employed in 64 primary, secondary and tertiary hospitals in 28 Chinese cities in Western, Central and Eastern China in 2018. Supervisor support, coworker support, distributive justice, and presenteeism were assessed with the supervisor support scale, coworker support scale, distributive justice scale and perceived ability to work scale, respectively. Structural equation modeling was used to examine relationships among variables. The mediating effect of distributive justice on associations between supervisor support, coworker support, and presenteeism was examined with the Sobel test. The results revealed that significant indirect effects between supervisor support and presenteeism and between coworker support and presenteeism were significantly mediated by distributive justice. Better supervisor and coworker support might improve distributive justice among healthcare workers in Chinese hospitals, thereby increasing their performance. Full article

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9 pages, 442 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Synergistic Effects of Organizational Justice and Trust to Supervisor on Vagal Tone: Preliminary Findings of an Empirical Investigation

by Raphael M. Herr, Jian Li and Peter Angerer

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(5), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16050790 - 4 Mar 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3217

Abstract

The influence of perceived unfairness at the workplace (organizational injustice) on employee health is well established. Several theories explain the unpleasant and stressful nature of the experience of injustice, using trust as a central element. This study examines the effect of trust to [...] Read more.

The influence of perceived unfairness at the workplace (organizational injustice) on employee health is well established. Several theories explain the unpleasant and stressful nature of the experience of injustice, using trust as a central element. This study examines the effect of trust to supervisor on the association of perceived injustice with vagal tone—an objective marker for stress experience. Questionnaires assessed organizational justice and trust. Vagal tone was measured by indictors of heart rate variability (HRV), which captured parasympathetic (pNN50, RMSSD, and HF) and parasympathetic and sympathetic (SDNN, and LF) regulation. Synergistic effects were tested by linear regressions with interaction terms between organizational justice and trust to supervisor in 38 managers. Organizational justice was related to HRV indicators that reflect in particular the parasympathetic branch (β_pNN50 = 0.32, p < 0.05; β_RMSSD = 0.27, p < 0.1), and interaction effects with trust to supervisor were also most pronounced there (interaction β_pNN50 = −0.41, p < 0.01; β_RMSSD = −0.47, p < 0.01). In conclusion, the combination of low perceived justice and trust to supervisor appears substantial to the physiological stress threat of employees. Promoting fairness at the workplace might reduce stress; if not possible, trust to supervisor should be enhanced. Full article

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