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Mohammadrezaei M, Meredith D, McNamara J, Kinsella J, Flannery S. Do social influences, awareness, or experience matter? Toward a better understanding of Farm-related Injury Risk Perception among agricultural science college students in Ireland. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1076332. [PMID: 36923033 PMCID: PMC10009155 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1076332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Formal farm safety education/training should be tailored, in terms of the approach, content and delivery, to students undertaking agriculture education and training to enhance Farm-related Injury Risk Perception (FIRP). To this end, this paper assesses factor(s) explaining or predicting levels of FIRP amongst students studying for a degree in agriculture science. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with a nationally representative sample of Bachelor of Agriculture Science (BAgrSc) students (N = 417) (aged 18-20) in Ireland. Descriptive [frequency and cross-tabulations) and inferential (Ordinal Logistic Regression (OLR)] analyses were applied to evaluate the effects of social influences, experience (of farming, of a near-miss or injury), and awareness (of others who were injured or killed on the farm) on FIRP. Results The study found that social influences negatively affected FIRP (P < 0.05). A relatively small number of students reported experiencing an injury (n = 56, 13.4%) that resulted in them being unable to participate in educational or social activities. A quarter of the respondents did, however, record experiencing a near-miss/close call (n = 106, 25.4%). A notable proportion (n = 144, 34.5%) of students had personal connections to someone who died as a consequence of a farm-related incident and 56.4% (n = 235) knew someone who was moderately or severely injured. OLR findings established that experiencing a severe injury, having a near-miss or close call, and awareness of a farm-related death or injury positively affects FIRP (P < 0.05). Conclusions Perception of farm risks amongst students in Ireland is low. Students who recorded higher levels of risk perception were, however, more likely to report experiencing a near-miss, close call or severe injury, or knowing someone who experienced a farm-related injury or fatality. Farmers, family or friends were found to negatively impact the FIRP and this reflects previous research findings. Our findings highlight the need for education and training programs to enhance opportunities for student peer-to-peer learning through sharing of experiences and/or knowledge of farm injuries and/or fatalities. Such activities will enhance awareness and understanding amongst the general population of students leading to increased FIRP and contribute to a reduction in risk-taking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mohammadrezaei
- Teagasc - Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, Rural Economy Development Programme, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David Meredith
- Teagasc - Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, Rural Economy Development Programme, Dublin, Ireland
| | - John McNamara
- Teagasc - Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, Farm Health and Safety Knowledge Transfer Unit, Kildalton Agricultural College, Kilkenny, Ireland
| | - James Kinsella
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sinéad Flannery
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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Turner N, Deng C, Granger S, Wingate TG, Shafqat R, Dueck PM. Young workers and safety: A critical review and future research agenda. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2022; 83:79-95. [PMID: 36481039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2022.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research on young worker safety often relies on inconsistent definitions of young workers and poorly delineated indicators of occupational safety. This review aims to reconcile these fundamental issues by critically integrating research across disciplines and providing clear directions for future research on young worker safety. METHOD We critically review the extant research on young worker safety. RESULTS We first reconcile the inconsistent definitions of young workers and specify the indicators of occupational safety used in young worker safety research. We next describe the prevalence of workplace injuries and population-level predictors of these injuries among young workers and then outline other factors that increase young workers' susceptibility to workplace injuries. Finally, we discuss the convergence of many of these issues on family farms-a context commonly studied in young worker safety research. CONCLUSIONS Clearer definitions of young workers and indicators of occupational safety can improve the interpretation and comparability of extant research findings. Furthermore, the prevalence of workplace injuries and population-level predictors of injury among young workers are subject to the interactions among age, gender, minority status, and job characteristics. Other factors that increase young workers' susceptibility to injury include young workers' responses to hazardous work, individual differences stemming from young workers' biological and psychological development, managerial attitudes about young workers, and the limited safety training young workers are thus provided, the types of work that young workers typically perform, and the range of social influences on young workers. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Safety campaigns and safety training should consider interactions among young workers' age, gender, minority status, and job characteristics, rather than considering these features independently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Turner
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Canada.
| | - Connie Deng
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Steve Granger
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Timothy G Wingate
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Rabeel Shafqat
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Paul M Dueck
- Asper School of Business, University of Manitoba, Canada
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Zampetakis LA. Occupational hazard perceptions as factors influencing students' intentions to engage in part-time jobs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2021; 28:2202-2209. [PMID: 34556009 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2021.1984710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to investigate the joined effects of students' perceived importance of occupational hazards and financial gains on intentions to engage in part-time jobs. The role of students' maturity value levels was also investigated. We used conservation of resources theory (COR) and job demands-resources (JD-R) theory as theoretical frameworks to test our hypotheses. Method. We conducted a factorial survey experiment using a sample of 858 students. Multilevel regression analyses with random effects were used to investigate effects of hazards perceptions and financial gains on intentions to engage in part-time jobs. The direct and moderating effects of students' maturity values were investigated. Results. Students considered financial gains more important in developing their intentions to take a part-time job, compared to occupational hazards. We also found interactions between occupational hazards and between occupational hazards and financial gains in predicting intentions. Students' maturity scores were negatively related to intentions and moderated the effects of financial gains and perceptions of psychological hazards on intentions. Conclusion. The study provided insights into students' perceptions of occupational hazards and financial benefits and their intention to take a part-time job. The results also indicate the direct and moderating effects of students' maturity values.
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Legan M, Zupan K. Prevalence of mobile device-related musculoskeletal pain among working university students: a cross-sectional study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2020; 28:734-742. [PMID: 32965177 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2020.1827561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate usage patterns of mobile devices and their impact on users' musculoskeletal system among working university students in Slovenia at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology of the University of Ljubljana. An Internet-based survey was sent to students' e-mail addresses and students provided information about usage patterns and reported on musculoskeletal pain (MSP) that may relate to mobile device usage in the past 12 months. A total of 535 students (63% females and 37% males) aged 18 years or older completed the survey and fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The results showed that the prevalence of MSP was 39.6%. Most musculoskeletal symptoms were reported in the back (57.1%) and shoulder (50%). Statistically significant differences in exposure to mobile devices and MSP between genders were found (p < 0.05). This study highlights the importance of knowledge of mobile device ergonomics among working students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maša Legan
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Klementina Zupan
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Lindholm M, Väyrynen S, Reiman A. Findings and views on occupational safety and health teaching at universities. Work 2020; 64:685-695. [PMID: 31815708 DOI: 10.3233/wor-193030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young employees have often poorer occupational safety and health (OSH) skills and knowledge than older employees. Efforts should be made at different educational levels to strengthen young employees' OSH skills and knowledge. OBJECTIVE To analyze OSH perceptions and attitudes among university students and to examine OSH professionals' views on OSH teaching. METHODS This explorative study employs an iterative multi-method approach, including a paired comparison questionnaire for university students (N = 104) and OSH professionals (N = 40), an OSH questionnaire for university students (N = 130) and a Delphi survey for OSH professionals (N = 26). RESULTS OSH perceptions and attitudes were found to vary widely among the students and some expressed somewhat stereotypical views about OSH. The results confirm the need to improve OSH education. To that end, the study reports concrete practical ideas from OSH professionals. CONCLUSIONS The findings confirm the need to augment both the quality and quantity of OSH teaching at university level. Ideas are presented for future OSH teaching, along with recommendations for future studies.
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Xu S, Wang L, Wang B, Guo H, Han L, Xu S, Chen H, Zhu B. Occupational safety and health in China: junior college students' knowledge from a large cross-sectional survey in Jiangsu Province. J Public Health Policy 2020; 41:375-385. [PMID: 32296113 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-020-00225-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Occupational health and safety (OHS) is important for safeguarding workers during industrialization and pursuing economic benefits. We asked 123,943 junior college students from years 1-5 to complete an online questionnaire about their knowledge of occupational safety and health. A total of 101,577 students responded, with a response rate of 81.96%. The average score and pass rate for all valid respondents were 44.99 ± 12.53 and 75.2%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences in average scores and pass rates among students of different genders, levels, number of family members, and school locations. Government departments should increase investment in Occupational Safety and Health education for students in poverty-stricken areas, and should conduct regular assessments of students' knowledge. Junior colleges should also strengthen learning in occupational health education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqing Xu
- School of Management, China University of Mining and Technology, 1 Daxue Rd, Xuzhou, 221116, Jiangsu, China.,Nanjing Engineering Branch, Jiangsu Union Technical Institute, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Nanjing Engineering Branch, Jiangsu Union Technical Institute, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Boshen Wang
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Prevention and Control, No. 172 Jiangsu Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.,Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haoran Guo
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Prevention and Control, No. 172 Jiangsu Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.,Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Han
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Prevention and Control, No. 172 Jiangsu Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Surong Xu
- School of Management, China University of Mining and Technology, 1 Daxue Rd, Xuzhou, 221116, Jiangsu, China.,Nanjing Engineering Branch, Jiangsu Union Technical Institute, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hong Chen
- School of Management, China University of Mining and Technology, 1 Daxue Rd, Xuzhou, 221116, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Baoli Zhu
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Prevention and Control, No. 172 Jiangsu Road, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
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Almhdawi KA, Mathiowetz V, Al-Hourani Z, Khader Y, Kanaan SF, Alhasan M. Musculoskeletal pain symptoms among allied health professions' students: Prevalence rates and associated factors. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2017; 30:1291-1301. [PMID: 28946521 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-169669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Very few articles, comprehensively, investigated musculoskeletal pain symptoms (MPS) among wide variety of allied health professions (AHP) students. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of MPS and their associated factors among different AHP majors' students. METHOD A cross-sectional design was conducted. A sample of AHP students from nine majors (n= 838, Mean age = 21.3 years) completed a validated structured self-administrated questionnaires including Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS 21), and specific questions regarding demographics and life style. MPS prevalence rate were compared between males and females and between majors. Logistic regression was conducted to identify predictors of MPS. RESULTS MPS in neck, lower back, and shoulder 12-month were the most prevalent (67.1%, and 61.4%, 58.8% respectively). MPS prevalence was significantly higher in females and statistically different among majors. MPS were significantly associated with increased clinical training load, mental stress symptoms, and smartphone average use time. CONCLUSIONS MPS in AHP students are prevalent and statistically higher among females. Students are advised to adhere to different conservative precautions and follow prevention programs. Future studies are needed to assess actual mechanisms causing MPS among AHP students and designing effective prevention programs specific to AHP students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khader A Almhdawi
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences - Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Virgil Mathiowetz
- Department of Rehabilitation Science - Occupational Therapy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Zeid Al-Hourani
- Department of Applied Dental Science - Dental Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Yousef Khader
- Medical Education and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Saddam F Kanaan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences - Physical Therapy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mustafa Alhasan
- Department of Allied Medical Sciences - Radiology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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Laperrière È, Messing K, Bourbonnais R. Work activity in food service: The significance of customer relations, tipping practices and gender for preventing musculoskeletal disorders. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2017; 58:89-101. [PMID: 27633201 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2016.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Some evidence shows that food servers are exposed to an elevated risk of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries, and that their work activity varies by gender. Interviews of servers and observations of food service in Québec, Canada, were carried out in three restaurants and a questionnaire was administered to 64 workers from 44 other restaurants. The relationship with the customer has specific effects on work activity and transforms the physical, emotional and cognitive work. Strategies intended to speed service or otherwise related to the customer relationship can involve health risks. Women reported more direct food service (p < 0.01), a tendency to do more "housekeeping" tasks (p < 0.07) and fewer hours of work per week (p < 0.01). Women workers reported experiencing more sites of pain (p < 0.003). This exploratory study suggests that managing the server-customer relationship could be important in preventing musculoskeletal disorders in this population and that women are at particular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ève Laperrière
- CGL Ergonomie, 157 Rue du Trèfle, Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, QC G3A 1H9, Canada.
| | - Karen Messing
- Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succ. Centre-ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada.
| | - Renée Bourbonnais
- Department of Rehabilitation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
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Andersson IM, Gunnarsson K, Rosèn G. Role of Headmasters, Teachers, and Supervisors in Knowledge Transfer about Occupational Health and Safety to Pupils in Vocational Education. Saf Health Work 2015; 6:317-23. [PMID: 26929844 PMCID: PMC4682029 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2015.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Young people are at an increased risk for illness in working life. The authorities stipulate certain goals for training in occupational health and safety (OHS) in vocational schools. A previous study concluded that pupils in vocational education had limited knowledge in the prevention of health risks at work. The aim of the current study, therefore, was to study how OHS training is organized in school and in workplace-based learning (WPL). Methods The study design featured a qualitative approach, which included interviews with 12 headmasters, 20 teachers, and 20 supervisors at companies in which the pupils had their WPL. The study was conducted at 10 upper secondary schools, located in Central Sweden, that were graduating pupils in four vocational programs. Results The interviews with headmasters, teachers, and supervisors indicate a staggered picture of how pupils are prepared for safe work. The headmasters generally give teachers the responsibility for how goals should be reached. Teaching is very much based on risk factors that are present in the workshops and on teachers' own experiences and knowledge. The teaching during WPL also lacks the systematic training in OHS as well as in the traditional classroom environment. Conclusion Teachers and supervisors did not plan the training in OHS in accordance with the provisions of systematic work environment management. Instead, the teachers based the training on their own experiences. Most of the supervisors did not receive information from the schools as to what should be included when introducing OHS issues in WPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ing-Marie Andersson
- School of Technology and Business Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gunnarsson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Rosèn
- School of Technology and Business Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
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Andersson IM, Gunnarsson K, Rosèn G, Moström Åberg M. Knowledge and Experiences of Risks among Pupils in Vocational Education. Saf Health Work 2014; 5:140-6. [PMID: 25379328 PMCID: PMC4213894 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2014.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Young male and female workers are over-represented in statistics concerning negative outcomes of poor work environment and risky work. Young workers often have low awareness of risk, a lack of safety training, and inadequate introduction to the work. The aim of this study was to identify the knowledge and experiences of pupils of vocational schools concerning potential work environment risks in their future work. Methods The study design was a dual one, and included a questionnaire and focus group interviews. The study group consisted of 239 pupils from 10 upper secondary schools, who were graduating pupils in four vocational programs: the Industrial Technology Programme, the Restaurant Management and Food Programme, the Transport Programme, and the Handicraft Programme (in which students specialize in wood products). The upper secondary schools were located in the central region of Sweden. Results The pupils had limited knowledge that employers must, by law, conduct risk analyses and prevent risks. Many felt that they themselves are mainly responsible for performing their tasks safely. Pupils in all programs mentioned acute risk as the greatest risk at work. The theoretical education about safety at work was provided in the 1st year of the 3-year vocational programs. Conclusion A systematic approach to pupils' training in work environment, which is a basis for a safe and healthy workplace, is lacking. The study findings indicate that pupils are offered knowledge far from that intended by laws and by state-of-the-art occupational health risk research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ing-Marie Andersson
- School of Technology and Business Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gunnarsson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Rosèn
- School of Technology and Business Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| | - Marie Moström Åberg
- School of Technology and Business Studies, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
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