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Fanfan D, Rodríguez C, Stacciarini JMR. Strès ak Pwoblèm Pap Janm Fini: Deciphering migration-related stress from the perspectives of Haitian immigrants in Florida. Transcult Psychiatry 2023; 60:717-732. [PMID: 37097922 DOI: 10.1177/13634615231164524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Relocating and starting a new life in a foreign country may entail a constellation of new stressors for Haitian immigrants; thus, research that enhances our understanding of how this vulnerable population contextualizes migration-related stress is necessary. The objectives of this study were to: (a) identify what factors are associated with migration-related stress, and (b) describe which and why specific migration-related stressors were most significant from the perspective of those suffering from high migration-related stress post migration via the stress proliferation lens of the stress process model. In this mixed-methods, sequential, explanatory pilot study, first-generation Haitian immigrants (N = 76) were recruited to operationalize migration-related stress, using the Demands of Immigration Scale (DIS). Participants (n = 8), who scored 25 or higher on the DIS, completed an in-depth audio-recorded follow-up interview that consisted of open-ended questions and a stressor-ranking questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, multiple linear regression (quantitative), and thematic analysis with a double-coded approach (qualitative) were employed to analyze the data. Female gender, older age, English fluency, and migration after the age of 18 years were associated with higher migration-related stress. However, only gender and English fluency predicted migration-related stress. In interviews, participants ranked five migration-related stressors as most stressful: language barriers, financial strains, loss of social networks, family conflicts, and exposure to discrimination/stigma. A nuanced depiction of migration-related stressors and proliferation mechanisms of migration-related stress may help identify areas where support and preventive efforts should be directed to improve social integration, stress levels, and mental well-being among immigrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dany Fanfan
- College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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2
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Pförtner TK. The Emergence of Precarious Employment as a Determinant of Health in Europe and the Relevance of Contextual Factors: A Critical Research Synthesis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SERVICES 2022:207314221139797. [DOI: 10.1177/00207314221139797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Precarious employment as a determinant of health remains on the rise in Europe, in contrast to the European Pillar of Social Rights. Research in epidemiology, public health, and occupational health research has debated the health impacts of precarious employment. A number of studies have concluded that precarious employment contributes to poor health. More recent research has focused on the contextual influences of the association between precarious employment and health. Accordingly, we argue that the welfare state and the specific institutional arrangements on the national level determine and mediate the extent of the association between precarious employment and health. This research synthesis: (a) debates explanations for the rise of precarious employment in Europe, (b) illustrates how precarious employment has risen in Europe since the 1980s, (c) indicates empirical findings of the association between precarious employment and health in Europe, (d) discusses how research explains between-country differences of the association between precarious employment and health, and (e) presents empirical findings on the contextual determinants of the association between precarious employment and health in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo-Kolja Pförtner
- Research Methods Division, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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3
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Lin JH, Lee W, Smith CK, Yragui NL, Foley M, Shin G. Cleaning in the 21st Century: The musculoskeletal disorders associated with the centuries-old occupation - A literature review. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 105:103839. [PMID: 35809429 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Workers performing cleaning duties experience higher injury rates, especially in the form of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), than other industries. It is essential to understand the inherent risks associated with the nature of this occupation. Based on the Balance Theory (Smith & Carayon-Sainfort, 1989), this review surveys the current literature, especially those published since the previous review paper (Kumar & Kumar, 2008), and identifies which elements contributing to MSD risks were examined: task, technology, organization, environment, individual, and their interactions. Thirty-nine research papers published between 2005 and 2021 are identified and summarized. Among these papers, task and individual elements received the most attention, at 42 and 34 occurrences, respectively. The interaction elements of technology-organization, technology-environment, and organization-environment received less than three mentions. The goal of this literature review is to update the knowledge base and identify current trends for the cleaning occupation. Possible interventions for risk reduction and future research directions are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Hua Lin
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP), Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, WA, USA.
| | - Wonil Lee
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP), Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, WA, USA
| | - Caroline K Smith
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP), Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, WA, USA
| | - Nanette L Yragui
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP), Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, WA, USA
| | - Michael Foley
- Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP), Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, WA, USA
| | - Gwanseob Shin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, South Korea
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Anderson NJ, Smith CK, Foley MP. Work-related injury burden, workers' compensation claim filing, and barriers: Results from a statewide survey of janitors. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:173-195. [PMID: 34897753 PMCID: PMC9300089 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Janitors are a low-wage, ethnically and linguistically diverse, hard-to-reach population of workers with a high burden of occupational injury and illness. METHODS Data from an extensive multimodal (mail, phone, web) survey of janitors in Washington State were analyzed to characterize their working conditions and occupational health experiences. The survey included questions on demographics, work organization and tasks, health and safety topics, and discrimination and harassment. The survey was administered in eight languages. RESULTS There were 620 complete interviews. The majority completed the survey by mail (62.6%), and in English (85.8%). More than half of responding janitors were female (56.9%), and the mean age was 45 years. Twenty percent reported having a (health-care-provider diagnosed) work-related injury or illness (WRII) in the past twelve months. Women and janitors who were Latino had significantly higher relative risk of WRII. Increased risk was also associated with several work organization factors that may indicate poor working conditions, insufficient sleep, and possible depression. Half of injured janitors did not file workers' compensation (WC) claims. CONCLUSIONS Janitors reported a high percentage of WRII, which exceeded previously published estimates from Washington State. Women and Latino janitors had significantly increased risk of WRII, and janitors' working conditions may influence the unequal distribution of risk. WRII surveillance via WC or medical care usage in janitors and other low-wage occupations may reflect substantial underreporting. Characterizing the nature of janitors' work experience can help identify avenues for prevention, intervention, and policy changes to protect the health and safety of janitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi J. Anderson
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries Olympia Washington USA
| | - Caroline K. Smith
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries Olympia Washington USA
| | - Michael P. Foley
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries Olympia Washington USA
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Priebe Rocha L, Soares C, McGregor A, Chen S, Kaplan A, Rose RR, Galvão H, Siqueira CE, Allen JD. Understanding Health Priorities, Behaviors, and Service Utilization Among Brazilian Immigrant Women: Implications for Designing Community-Based Interventions. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2022; 9:135-145. [PMID: 33403650 PMCID: PMC7785287 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-020-00936-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Brazilians represent a growing proportion of immigrants in the USA. Little is known about their health or healthcare utilization after their arrival. This study aimed to gather formative data to understand the needs of Brazilian immigrant women to guide public health interventions. We conducted five focus groups with Brazilian women born in Brazil (n = 47) and 13 key informant interviews with representatives from Brazilian-serving organizations. Participants were recruited from churches and social service organizations in the Greater Boston area. Findings revealed that mental health was the most pressing health priority; many attributed high levels of anxiety and depression to worries about undocumented status, separation from social networks, and strenuous work schedules. Occupational health issues were frequently mentioned, including musculoskeletal complaints, skin rashes, and respiratory problems. Domestic violence was also a concern, and many women feared reporting to police due to undocumented status. Most reported good access to medical care and described the quality of healthcare services as superior to that available in Brazil. However, many reported challenges with interpersonal communication with providers, dissatisfaction with a perceived unwillingness from providers to order medical tests or prescribe treatment, and limited access to mental health services. There was agreement that effective intervention strategies should use social media, radio, and group education in churches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Priebe Rocha
- Department of Psychology, Tufts University, 490 Boston Ave, Medford, MA 02155 USA
| | - Cristiane Soares
- Department of Romance Studies, Tufts University, 180 Packard Avenue, Medford, MA 02155 USA
| | - Alecia McGregor
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, 574 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155 USA
| | - Stacy Chen
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, 574 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155 USA
| | - Amy Kaplan
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, 574 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155 USA
| | - Rebecca R. Rose
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, 574 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155 USA
| | - Heloisa Galvão
- Brazilian Women’s Group, 697 Cambridge Street, Brighton, MA 02135 USA
| | - C. Eduardo Siqueira
- School for the Environment, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125 USA
| | - Jennifer D. Allen
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, 574 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155 USA
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Lerman Ginzburg S, Botana Martinez P, Reisner E, Chappell S, Brugge D, Kurtz-Rossi S. An Evaluation of an Environmental Health Infographic in Community Settings. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2021; 58:469580211059290. [PMID: 34894836 PMCID: PMC8672375 DOI: 10.1177/00469580211059290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Background: Infographics are an effective way of communicating complex information due to their reliance on concise language and clear, uncluttered visuals. Research indicates that traffic-related ultrafine particles (UFPs) in air pollutions adversely affect human health, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we work with community-based adult literacy programs to develop an infographic about UFPs in air pollution with the goal of community-driven problem solving related to traffic-related UFPs within affected neighborhoods. Objective: In this paper, we discuss the development and evaluation of an infographic about the dangers of UFPs from traffic pollution, and actions that readers in affected communities can take to protect their health. We used the infographic format to conceptualize UFP pollution and its health effects visually for community members many of whom are new immigrants and do not speak English as their first language. Methods: We conducted 1 focus group and 4 interviews over Zoom, and collected 74 anonymous surveys among Boston Chinatown and Somerville, MA residents. Community partner organizations assisted us in recruiting participants by sending a recruitment flyer to their email contacts and identifying specific people who were interested in participating. Key Results: Data from the surveys, focus group, and interviews yielded 8 themes that guided the revision of the infographic. The majority of the participants responded positively to the infographic: 95.9% (n = 71) of respondents reported that the purpose of the infographic was clear, that the infographic contained a clear message, and that the infographic uses images to explain important points. Conclusions: Our experience developing and evaluating an infographic about near highway pollution in environmental justice communities suggests that infographics can be a viable communication tool in this context. Further research with infographics of a similar nature but in diverse communities is needed to strengthen our conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ellin Reisner
- Somerville Transportation Equity Partnership, Somerville, MA, USA
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Using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Data as an Occupational Health Profile: Washington State Janitors, 2011 to 2017. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 61:747-753. [PMID: 31233009 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Janitorial workers have a high burden of occupational injury and illness, but little information exists on their overall health. METHODS Data from the Washington State Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were analyzed to characterize the working population of Janitors in Washington State from 2011 to 2017 (n = 490) as compared with all other workers (n = 38,885). RESULTS Compared with other workers, Janitors were significantly more diverse, had lower socioeconomic status, and reported poorer general health and higher rates of arthritis and depression. Janitors were less likely to have adequate sleep, health insurance, and access to technology. Janitors reported higher rates of smoking and marijuana use. CONCLUSIONS Multiple risk factors compound the vulnerability of Janitors. BRFSS data can be used to characterize the health of occupational groups. Identifying overall health needs can better inform policy and help formulate strategies to improve workers' health.
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Siordia C, Galley F. Participation of Workers of Asian Ancestry in High-Risk Occupations in the United States: 2009 to 2017. J Immigr Minor Health 2020; 22:1010-1016. [PMID: 32236776 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-020-01006-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Risk for workplace injury varies by occupation. Participation in high-risk occupations is non-randomly distributed as a function of demographic characteristics. Enhancing understanding of occupational health and safety disparities allows for the creation of actionable knowledge to advance health equity. The specific aim of our analysis was to examine between-group differences in participation in high-risk occupations among workers with an Asian Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese ancestry. Analysis included workers who reported one of the following ancestries: Asian Indian; Chinese; Filipino; Japanese; Korean; or Vietnamese. Observational study used American Community Survey (ACS) Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) single-year files from 2009 through 2017. Data on the analytic sample (unweighted = 480,170) was used to estimate per Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) by year and Asian ancestry. Analysis used the replicate weight method to estimate margins of error. Statistical analysis indicated workers with a Filipino ancestry engage in high-risk occupations at the highest proportion. Observed between-group differences merit further scientific inquiry. Advancing metrology is crucial to promoting the health equity of understudied populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Siordia
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, 64 Medical Center Drive, PO Box 9190, Morgantown, WV, 2650, USA.
| | - Fiona Galley
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
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9
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Pförtner TK, Pfaff H, Hower KI. Trends in the association of different forms of precarious employment and self-rated health in Germany. An analysis with the German Socio-Economic Panel between 1995 and 2015. J Epidemiol Community Health 2019; 73:1002-1011. [PMID: 31515261 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2018-211933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Precarious employment has increased in Germany by means of labour market flexibilisation throughout the 1990s and 2000s. In this study, trends in the association of self-rated health (SRH) with different dimensions of precarious employment by gender in Germany between 1995 and 2015 were assessed considering different periods of labour market reforms and the Great Recession. METHODS Analyses were conducted using the German Socio-Economic Panel from 1995 to 2015. All employed individuals aged 18-67 years and living in private households were considered for analysis to examine the risks of poor SRH by low wage, working poverty, non-standard working time arrangements and perceived job insecurity by gender. Predicted probabilities, adjusted risk ratio (ARR), adjusted risk difference (ARD) and trends were examined using pooled interval logistic regression with individual-clustered standard errors. RESULTS Relative and absolute differences in SRH rose significantly over time by perceived job insecurity for men, but not for women. Working poverty appeared to be significantly associated with SRH in the Great Recession and the post-Recession period for both gender. Non-standard working time arrangements were not significantly associated with SRH for both gender, and low wage appeared to be significantly associated with SRH only for men in the post-Recession period. CONCLUSIONS The results highlighted the relevance of labour market reforms of deregulation and flexibilisation in Germany to differences in SRH by specific forms of precarious employment and gender differences in the impact of labour market reforms on precarious employment and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo-Kolja Pförtner
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Health Services Research, and Rehabilitation Science (IMVR), Faculty of Human Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Holger Pfaff
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Health Services Research, and Rehabilitation Science (IMVR), Faculty of Human Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kira Isabel Hower
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Health Services Research, and Rehabilitation Science (IMVR), Faculty of Human Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Eggerth DE, Ortiz B, Keller BM, Flynn MA. Work experiences of Latino building cleaners: An exploratory study. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:600-608. [PMID: 31104342 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are roughly 3.8 million cleaning workers in the United States. The cleaning workforce is largely composed of women, immigrants, and ethnic minorities who receive low wages and have low education levels. They are exposed to physical, chemical, biological, and psychosocial hazards. METHODS Qualitative methodology was used to investigate how Latino immigrants experience work as building cleaners. A grounded theory coding approach was used to analyze focus group data from 77 participants. RESULTS Three major themes were identified: economic vulnerability, psychosocial stressors, and health and safety effects. Although workers are aware of the safety hazards associated with their jobs, they believe their immigration status limits employment opportunities leading them to accept poor working conditions. They work through injuries and cope psychologically through minimizing negative health impacts and normalizing work-related injuries and illnesses. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that interventions for these workers should recognize the hostile organizational and psychosocial contexts within which immigrants often work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald E. Eggerth
- Education and Information Division, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnati Ohio
| | - Bermang Ortiz
- Education and Information Division, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnati Ohio
| | - Brenna M. Keller
- Education and Information Division, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnati Ohio
| | - Michael A. Flynn
- Education and Information Division, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionNational Institute for Occupational Safety and HealthCincinnati Ohio
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11
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Premji S. Discourse on culture in research on immigrant and migrant workers' health. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:460-470. [PMID: 31111524 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health and safety researchers and practitioners have proposed that cultural differences help explain inequalities between foreign and native-born workers. While cultural explanations for inequalities have long been debated in other fields, there exists little critique of cultural discourses in occupational health. METHODS This article examines and discusses the discourse on culture in 107 articles on immigrant or migrant workers' health published between 2011 and 2015. For each article, passages on culture were identified and analysed for both the context and the manner in which culture was discussed. RESULTS The discourse on culture was found to be generally simplistic, individualistic, and uncritical, intentionally or unintentionally supporting the worldview that workers' "otherness" is both cause of inequalities and target for interventions. CONCLUSION The article argues that empirical, theoretical and interdisciplinary work is needed to document the mechanisms and pathways that underlie health and safety inequalities by foreign-born status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Premji
- School of Labour Studies, Department of Health, Aging and SocietyMcMaster UniversityHamilton Ontario Canada
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12
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Green DR, Gerberich SG, Kim H, Ryan AD, McGovern PM, Church TR, Schwartz A, Arauz RF. Knowledge of work-related injury reporting and perceived barriers among janitors. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2019; 69:1-10. [PMID: 31235219 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The goal of this study was to evaluate and improve janitors' knowledge of workers' rights and responsibilities for assessing and reporting work-related injuries, and to determine the barriers for reporting occupational injuries. METHODS Questionnaires, designed to collect data retrospectively for two, sequential six-month periods, were disseminated to 1200 full-time unionized janitors in the Twin Cities. Immediately following the baseline questionnaire administration, a randomly selected sub-group of janitors (~600) received information on workers' rights and responsibilities for reporting injuries; six-months later a questionnaire comparable to the baseline questionnaire was disseminated to the 1200 janitors. Analyses included basic descriptive analyses and identification of potential differences in proportions of job-specific reporting barriers pre-post-intervention. RESULTS Among the participating janitors (n = 390), approximately half (53%) were initially unsure of what an OSHA 300 Log was; 56% reported not knowing what workers' compensation was. At baseline, in both intervention and non-intervention groups, approximately 25% reported having a perceived barrier to reporting an injury to their employer. Reported barriers included "fear," "reporting takes too long," "being unsure of the reporting process," and an "understanding that injuries are a part of the job." At follow-up, among the intervention group, there was an important reduction (24%-12%) in having a perceived barrier for reporting a work-related injury. CONCLUSIONS A majority of janitors lacked knowledge and awareness of OSHA injury reporting and Workers' Compensation. In order to improve reporting, it is essential to educate employees on OSHA and Workers' Compensation and inform janitors of the injury reporting process through training. Practical applications: Future intervention efforts must focus on the specific barriers for reporting occupational injuries and be tailored specifically to the janitor population. To reduce underreporting of injuries, they must be encouraged to report their occupational injuries. Barriers to reporting these injuries must be eliminated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre R Green
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Susan Goodwin Gerberich
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
| | - Hyun Kim
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Andrew D Ryan
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Patricia M McGovern
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Timothy R Church
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Adam Schwartz
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Rony F Arauz
- Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety Education and Research Center, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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Moyce SC, Schenker M. Occupational Exposures and Health Outcomes Among Immigrants in the USA. Curr Environ Health Rep 2018; 4:349-354. [PMID: 28812286 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-017-0152-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Immigrants experience higher rates of occupational injury and fatality than their native-born counterparts. This review summarizes the current data related to occupational/environmental exposures and explores potential reasons for the disparities. RECENT FINDINGS Immigrant workers are employed in sectors that expose them to dangerous working conditions. They experience increased risk for exposure to heat, pesticides, hazardous chemicals, and cleaning agents, as well as physical hazards such as falls. Immigrant workers are at increased risk for occupational injury and fatality due to the nature of the work they traditionally perform, a lack of enforced safety regulations, and limited access to health care or worker's compensation benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally C Moyce
- School of Nursing, Samuel Merritt University, 3100 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA, 94609, USA
| | - Marc Schenker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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Abstract
In 2015, approximately 244 million people were transnational migrants, approximately half of whom were workers, often engaged in jobs that are hazardous to their health. They work for less pay, for longer hours, and in worse conditions than do nonmigrants and are often subject to human rights violations, abuse, human trafficking, and violence. Worldwide, immigrant workers have higher rates of adverse occupational exposures and working conditions, which lead to poor health outcomes, workplace injuries, and occupational fatalities. Health disparities of immigrant workers are related to environmental and occupational exposures and are a result of language/cultural barriers, access to health care, documentation status, and the political climate of the host country. Recommendations on global and local scales are offered as potential solutions to improving the health of immigrant workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally C Moyce
- School of Nursing, Samuel Merritt University, Oakland, California 94609, USA;
| | - Marc Schenker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA;
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Abstract
Hotel housekeepers are exposed to a plethora of disproportionately high work-induced hazards that can lead to adverse health consequences. Latina hotel housekeepers are rendered particularly vulnerable to elevated occupational hazards and resultant health strains due to their socioeconomic status, immigration status, language barriers, and lack of access to healthcare services. The findings from the 27 interviews with Latina hotel housekeepers indicated that the interviewees were exposed to physical, chemical, and social hazards in the workplace and suffered musculoskeletal injuries. In terms of psychological wellness, the time pressure of cleaning rooms quickly and work-related stress stemming from workplace mistreatment emerged as major work-related stressors. Recommendations are made for the introduction of multilevel interventions designed to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses and to promote healthier workplaces.
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Smith CK, Anderson NJ. Work-related injuries among commercial janitors in Washington State, comparisons by gender. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2017; 62:199-207. [PMID: 28882267 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2017.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We analyzed workers' compensation (WC) data to identify characteristics related to workers' compensation claim outcomes among janitorial service workers in Washington State. METHOD We analyzed WC data from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) State Fund (SF) from January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2013, for janitorial service workers employed in the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) Services Sector. We constructed multivariable models to identify factors associated with higher medical costs and increased time lost from work. RESULTS There were 2,390 janitorial service compensable claims available for analysis. There were significant differences in injury type and other factors by gender, age, and language preference. Linguistic minority status was associated with longer time loss and higher median medical costs. Women were estimated to account for 35% of janitorial service workers but made up 55% of the compensable claims in this study. CONCLUSIONS Janitorial service workers comprise a large vulnerable occupational group in the U.S. workforce. Identifying differences by injury type and potential inequitable outcomes by gender and language is important to ensuring equal treatment in the workers' compensation process. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS There were significant differences in injury and individual characteristics between men and women in this study. Women had twice the estimated rate of injury to men, and were more likely to require Spanish language materials. Improving communication for training and knowledge about the workers' compensation system appear to be high priorities in this population of injured janitorial service workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline K Smith
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA.
| | - Naomi J Anderson
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA
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Welton M, DeJoy D, Castellanos ME, Ebell M, Shen Y, Robb S. Ethnic Disparities of Perceived Safety Climate Among Construction Workers in Georgia, 2015. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2017. [PMID: 28643270 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-017-0394-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Safety climate involves worker perception about the relative importance where they work and safety climate and has been shown to be a reliable predictor of safety-related outcomes. METHODS The primary objective of this study is to investigate ethnic differences in perceived safety climate among construction workers. Surveys (n = 179) that included a 10-item safety climate scale were administered in Athens, Georgia (GA), at local construction sites and home improvement stores during June-August, 2015. RESULTS The majority of respondents were carpenters or roofers (39%), followed by laborers (22%), painters and dry wall workers (14%), other skilled trades (14%), and supervisors (11%); 32% were Hispanic. Hispanic ethnicity (p < 0.0001), drinking two or more alcoholic beverages per day (p < 0.0001), working for a company that does not provide health insurance (p = 0.0022), and working for a company with fewer than ten employees (p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with lower perceived safety climate scores. CONCLUSION The lower perceived safety climate scores among Hispanic workers indicate that the perception of the importance of safety on the job site is lower among Hispanics construction workers than non-Hispanics construction workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Welton
- University of Georgia, College of Public Health, 101 Buck Road, Athens, 30606, GA, USA.
| | - David DeJoy
- University of Georgia, College of Public Health, 101 Buck Road, Athens, 30606, GA, USA
| | | | - Mark Ebell
- University of Georgia, College of Public Health, 101 Buck Road, Athens, 30606, GA, USA
| | - Ye Shen
- University of Georgia, College of Public Health, 101 Buck Road, Athens, 30606, GA, USA
| | - Sara Robb
- University of Georgia, College of Public Health, 101 Buck Road, Athens, 30606, GA, USA
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Tribble AG, Summers P, Chen H, Quandt SA, Arcury TA. Musculoskeletal pain, depression, and stress among Latino manual laborers in North Carolina. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2016; 71:309-316. [PMID: 26422551 PMCID: PMC4814349 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2015.1100104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The jobs of Latino manual laborers place their mental and physical health at risk. This study evaluates the associations among musculoskeletal pain, mental health, and work organization in Latino manual laborers. Farmworkers and nonfarmworkers (n = 189) in North Carolina were interviewed for self-reported musculoskeletal pain, depressive symptoms, stress, work safety climate, and precarious job status. More nonfarmworkers than farmworkers had neck and shoulder pain, but they did not differ in other areas of musculoskeletal pain. Depressive symptoms had a significant association with neck and shoulder pain (p < .05). Precariousness had a significant association with back pain (p < .05). Farmworker participants had H-2A visas and were afforded some protection compared to nonfarmworker manual workers. Research is needed to improve policy that relieves pain and improves mental health for all Latino manual workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Grace Tribble
- a Department of Anthropology , Wake Forest University , Winston-Salem North Carolina , USA
| | - Phillip Summers
- b Department of Family and Community Medicine , Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Haiying Chen
- c Department of Biostatistical Sciences , Division of Public Health Sciences, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Sara A Quandt
- d Department of Epidemiology and Prevention , Division of Public Health Sciences, Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Thomas A Arcury
- b Department of Family and Community Medicine , Center for Worker Health, Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
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Abstract
The majority of workers in the global south, and increasing numbers in the north, work in the informal economy. Most are de facto or de jure excluded from services and regulation of occupational health and safety. Significant recent improvements in classification of status of informal employment have enabled improved labor force data; it has not been matched by progress with data collection on work-related risks, hazards, and health outcomes for informal workers. This special edition describes some of the risks and hazards, but focuses on strategies and interventions-such as taking occupational health and safety services to markets where informal workers operate, legal reforms, and designing appropriate equipment. The diversity of occupations and work places (many in public space) mean that new stakeholders such as local municipalities, informal workers associations and unions, as well as health professionals, need to be considered when striving for a more inclusive occupational health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francie Lund
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa Social Protection Programme, Women in Informal Employment: Globalizing and Organizing (WIEGO)
| | - Rajen Naidoo
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Panikkar B, Brugge D, Gute DM, Hyatt RR. "They See Us As Machines:" The Experience of Recent Immigrant Women in the Low Wage Informal Labor Sector. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142686. [PMID: 26600083 PMCID: PMC4657936 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2014] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explores the organization of work and occupational health risk as elicited from recently immigrated women (n = 8) who have been in the US for less than three years and employed in informal work sectors such as cleaning and factory work in the greater Boston area in Massachusetts. Additional interviews (n = 8) with Community Key Informants with knowledge of this sector and representatives of temporary employment agencies in the area provides further context to the interviews conducted with recent immigrant women. These results were also compared with our immigrant occupational health survey, a large project that spawned this study. Responses from the study participants suggest health outcomes consistent with being a day-laborer scholarship, new immigrant women are especially at higher risk within these low wage informal work sectors. A difference in health experiences based on ethnicity and occupation was also observed. Low skilled temporary jobs are fashioned around meeting the job performance expectations of the employer; the worker's needs are hardly addressed, resulting in low work standards, little worker protection and poor health outcomes. The rising prevalence of non-standard employment or informal labor sector requires that policies or labor market legislation be revised to meet the needs presented by these marginalized workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu Panikkar
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States of America
| | - Doug Brugge
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - David M. Gute
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States of America
| | - Raymond R. Hyatt
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite considerable debate surrounding the use of Medicaid by undocumented immigrants, few studies address the extent of this use or estimate differences in the use between documented and undocumented households. METHOD We analyzed data from the National Agricultural Workers Survey annual cross sections from 1993 through 2009, N = 41,342. Simple mean differences and logistic regressions predicted participation in Medicaid over 2-year intervals. RESULTS Without adjustments for covariates, 12.2% of undocumented farm workers' households and 22.6% of documented households received Medicaid benefits, corresponding to an odds ratio of 0.48 (95% confidence interval, 0.33 to 0.69). By adding only covariates reflecting presence of children in the household, the odds ratio increased to 0.86 (95% confidence interval, 0.73 to 1.02). CONCLUSIONS Undocumented farm workers' households were roughly half as likely to use Medicaid as documented households, and undocumented households' participation was especially responsive to the presence of children.
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