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Shockey TM, Silver SR, Wilmot A. Development and Cognitive Testing of Occupational Safety and Health Questions for a Youth Survey: Addressing the Research Needs for a Vulnerable Working Population. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2024; 94:165-177. [PMID: 37562408 PMCID: PMC10840596 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While more than 2.5 million U.S. high students worked in 2020, data to assess how work affects this group are sparse. To facilitate such research, a set of occupational safety and health questions for inclusion on the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) and other youth-focused surveys was developed. METHODS Survey questions about occupational experiences of young workers were adapted from other surveys or created de novo. Key audiences were engaged to define priority topic areas and develop draft questions, which were further refined through cognitive interviews with working youth. RESULTS Twenty-one resulting questions spanned multiple work-related topics: employment status; health outcomes; psychosocial exposures; and safety climate. Cognitive testing revealed that youth (aged 14-19) had difficulty with temporal concepts. Some difficulties reflected the propensity of youth to engage in multiple, online, and informal jobs. During 3 rounds of interviews, questions were adjusted to better reflect youth employment circumstances and language. Four states added at least 1 work-related question to their 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey questionnaire, and the full set of questions has been disseminated to federal agencies and partners. CONCLUSION Including tailored questions about employment in surveys of youth will facilitate occupational health surveillance for this group. Analysis of resulting data can help to close knowledge gaps, provide current prevalence data, inform policy, and allow development of focused prevention and intervention strategies to reduce adverse outcomes among young workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M. Shockey
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Field Studies and Engineering, Health Informatics Branch
| | - Sharon R. Silver
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Field Studies and Engineering, Health Informatics Branch
| | - Amanda Wilmot
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics, Division of Research and Methodology, Collaborating Center for Questionnaire Design and Evaluation Research
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Kaur H, Wurzelbacher SJ, Bushnell PT, Bertke S, Meyers AR, Grosch JW, Naber SJ, Lampl M. Occupational Injuries Among Construction Workers by Age and Related Economic Loss: Findings From Ohio Workers' Compensation, USA: 2007-2017. Saf Health Work 2023; 14:406-414. [PMID: 38187211 PMCID: PMC10770107 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2023.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study examined age-group differences in the rate, severity, and cost of injuries among construction workers to support evidence-based worker safety and health interventions in the construction industry. Methods Ohio workers' compensation claims for construction workers were used to estimate claim rates and costs by age group. We analyzed claims data auto-coded into five event/exposure categories: transportation incidents; slips, trips, and falls (STFs); exposure to harmful substances and environments; contact with objects and equipment (COB); overexertion and bodily reaction. American Community Survey data were used to determine the percentage of workers in each age group. Results From 2007-2017, among 72,416 accepted injury claims for ∼166,000 construction full-time equivalent (FTE) per year, nearly half were caused by COB, followed by STFs (20%) and overexertion (20%). Claim rates related to COB and exposure to harmful substances and environments were highest among those 18-24 years old, with claim rates of 313.5 and 25.9 per 10,000 FTE, respectively. STFs increased with age, with the highest claim rates for those 55-64 years old (94.2 claims per 10,000 FTE). Overexertion claim rates increased and then declined with age, with the highest claim rate for those 35-44 years old (87.3 per 10,000 FTE). While younger workers had higher injury rates, older workers had higher proportions of lost-time claims and higher costs per claim. The total cost per FTE was highest for those 45-54 years old ($1,122 per FTE). Conclusion The variation in rates of injury types by age suggests that age-specific prevention strategies may be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harpriya Kaur
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Steven J. Wurzelbacher
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - P. Tim Bushnell
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Stephen Bertke
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Alysha R. Meyers
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - James W. Grosch
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Michael Lampl
- Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation, Columbus, OH, USA
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Kwon S, Lee SJ. Underreporting of work-related low back pain among registered nurses: A mixed method study. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:952-964. [PMID: 37635360 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying and addressing work-related health problems early is crucial, but workers often perceive barriers in reporting these to management. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with nurses' reporting of work-related low back pain to their managers and explored the reasons why nurses with patient handling injuries did not report them. METHODS This study is a concurrent mixed-method analysis of data from two statewide cross-sectional surveys of California registered nurses conducted in 2013 and 2016. The reporting of work-related low back pain to management (n = 288) was examined for associations with individual, occupational, and organizational factors. For qualitative analysis, the reasons for not reporting patient handling injuries were explored using open-ended responses (n = 42). RESULTS Reporting was associated with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) men (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-1.59) compared to non-Hispanic White women; being a non-US educated nurse (AOR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.80-1.01); experiencing greater low back pain (AOR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02-1.12); missing work (AOR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.21-2.62); perceiving high physical workload (AOR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.81-0.98); perceiving high people-oriented culture (AOR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.04-1.25); and perceiving high ergonomic practices (AOR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.81-0.98). Identified themes on the reasons for not reporting injuries included organizational-culture attitudes toward work-related injuries and injury characteristics of musculoskeletal disorders. CONCLUSIONS The findings indicate a need for management to remove structural barriers and improve organizational practices, and for a culture that promotes trust and open communication between workers and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyoung Kwon
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Soo Jeong Lee
- School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Wagner TD, Paul ME, Youngson LR, Levin DR. Lessons Learned on a High-Altitude Expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro. Wilderness Environ Med 2023; 34:354-360. [PMID: 37147268 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
High-altitude expeditions expose teams to particular medical, environmental, and social challenges that can have unintended and severe consequences for crew members. In June 2017, the 9-d Equal Playing Field (EPF) expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro to set a world record for the highest-altitude soccer match ever played demonstrated the variety of challenges that may arise during these types of trips. This trip included a full-length soccer match at 5714 m (18,746 ft), leading to additional challenges for expedition members participating in the athletic event. The EPF medical team identified the challenges that occurred during the expedition and documented the methods used to resolve these challenges in real time. From the challenges faced during the expedition, we describe the lessons learned for future expeditions to Mount Kilimanjaro and other high-altitude environments. Challenges arose with medical tent visibility, medical disqualification, underreporting of medical events, and acute pain management, while anticipated challenges with interpersonal conflict did not occur. The rigorous preparation and anticipation by the EPF medical team prior to expedition departure may have helped mitigate this conflict as well as prevented unintended severe medical events from occurring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Wagner
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY.
| | - Megan E Paul
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | | | - Dana R Levin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Aerospace Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
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McMullin B, Fraser J, Robinson B, French J, Adisesh A. Work-related injuries and attendance at a Canadian regional emergency department. Occup Med (Lond) 2023; 73:138-141. [PMID: 36719101 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monitoring trends in the burden of illness and injury attributable to work is key in assessing occupational health hazards; however, New Brunswick does not participate in the Canadian National Ambulatory Care Reporting System which itself does not collect details of occupation and industry. AIMS We set out to determine the proportion of emergency department attendances that were attributable to a work-related cause. We also wanted to evaluate the recording of occupation in the electronic health record system, and to describe the characteristics of patients with a work-related presentation. METHODS A retrospective observational study over a 1-year period was conducted using an administrative database obtained from Canadian Emergency Department Information System. Descriptive statistics are used to present the analysis of categorical and continuous data. RESULTS A total of 49 365 patients were included for analysis. Two per cent of patients presented with a self-reported work-related condition. Health care and social assistance, construction, retail trade and manufacturing were the most common industries reported by patients. CONCLUSIONS This study found the rate of work-related medical conditions to be substantially less than expected, and that occupation was not captured for any patients presenting to the emergency department with a work-related condition, despite a field being available in the electronic health record registration system. We were able to analyse the industry sectors for work-related presentations. The recording and coding of occupation and industry would significantly benefit occupational epidemiology in emergency medicine as well as potentially improving patient outcomes and health system efficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B McMullin
- Dalhousie University, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2K 5E2, Canada
| | - J Fraser
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint John Regional Hospital, Horizon Health Network, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L2, Canada
| | - B Robinson
- Research Services, Horizon Health Network, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L2, Canada
| | - J French
- Dalhousie University, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2K 5E2, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint John Regional Hospital, Horizon Health Network, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L2, Canada
- Trauma New Brunswick, Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick E2L 4L2, Canada
| | - A Adisesh
- Dalhousie University, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick E2K 5E2, Canada
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A1, Canada
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Kreshpaj B, Wegman DH, Burstrom B, Davis L, Hemmingsson T, Håkansta C, Jonsson J, Johansson G, Kjellberg K, Sanchez Martinez N, Matilla-Santander N, Orellana C, Bodin T. Precarious employment and occupational injuries in Sweden between 2006 and 2014: a register-based study. Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:179-185. [PMID: 36585247 PMCID: PMC10086457 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2022-108604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Precarious employment (PE) has been suggested as a risk factor for occupational injuries (OIs). However, several issues such as under-reporting and time at risk pose obstacles to obtaining unbiased estimates of risk OBJECTIVE: To investigate if PE is a risk factor for OIs in Sweden. METHODS This register-based study included employed workers aged 18-65, resident in Sweden between 2006 and 2014. PE was operationalised as a multidimensional construct (score) and by its five items (contract insecurity, contractual temporariness, multiple jobs/multiple sectors, income level, collective bargaining agreement). Our outcome was OI in the following year. Pooled ORs for OIs in relation to PE and PE items were calculated by means of multivariate logistic regression models for women and men separately. RESULTS Precarious workers were at lower risk of OIs as compared with non-precarious workers among both males and females (OR <1) also when applying weights for under-reporting and adjusting for time at risk (part-time work). Male agencies workers had a higher risk of OIs (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.23), as did male and female workers in multiple jobs/sectors (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.28 and OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.13 respectively), and female workers in the low-income groups (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.12). Low coverage of collective bargaining agreements was associated with a lower risk of OIs for both men and women (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.31 and OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.27, respectively). CONCLUSIONS While several mechanisms may explain why precarious workers in Sweden present lower risks of OIs, several dimensions of PE such as temp agency work and multiple job-holding could be important risk factors for OIs and merit further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertina Kreshpaj
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden .,Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - David H Wegman
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bo Burstrom
- Department of Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Letitia Davis
- Occupational Health Surveillance Program, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tomas Hemmingsson
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carin Håkansta
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Working Life Science, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Johanna Jonsson
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gun Johansson
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Stockholms Lans Landsting, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katarina Kjellberg
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Stockholms Lans Landsting, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nestor Sanchez Martinez
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nuria Matilla-Santander
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Orellana
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Theo Bodin
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Stockholms Lans Landsting, Stockholm, Sweden
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Kyung M, Lee SJ, Dancu C, Hong O. Underreporting of workers' injuries or illnesses and contributing factors: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:558. [PMID: 36959647 PMCID: PMC10037763 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15487-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accurate identification of work-related health problems is important to understand workplace safety issues and develop appropriate interventions. Although workers' reporting of work-related injuries or illnesses is the very first step of the reporting process, many workers may encounter challenges in reporting them to their management or workers' compensation (WC) programs. This systematic review aimed to identify the level of workers' underreporting of work-related injuries and illnesses and the contributing factors and reasons for underreporting among US workers. METHODS This study searched PubMed (Medline), PsycINFO (ProQuest), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), EMBASE (Embase.com), and Social Science Citation Index (Web of Science) using search terms related to underreporting of work-related injury or illness. RESULTS Twenty studies (17 quantitative and three mixed methods studies) were identified. The studies investigated reporting to management (n = 12), WC programs (n = 6), multiple organizations (n = 1), and not specified (n = 1). The timeframe used to measure reporting prevalence varied from three months to entire careers of workers, with the most common timeframe of 12 months. This review indicated that 20-91% of workers did not report their injuries or illnesses to management or WC programs. From quantitative studies, contributing factors for injury or illness underreporting were categorized as follows: injury type and severity, sociodemographic factors (e.g., age, gender, education, and race/ethnicity), general health and functioning, worker's knowledge on reporting, job and employment characteristics (e.g., work hour, job tenure, work shift, type of occupation, and physical demand), psychosocial work environment (e.g., supervisor support, coworker support, and safety climate), and health care provider factors. From the review of qualitative studies, the reasons for underreporting included the following: fear or concern, cumbersome time and effort in the reporting process, lack of knowledge regarding reporting, perceptions of injuries as not severe or part of the job, and distrust of reporting consequences. CONCLUSIONS The review findings indicated that low wage earners, racial/ethnic minority workers, and workers who perceive a poor psychosocial work environment encounter more barriers to reporting a work-related injury or illness. This review also identified variations in the measurement of work-related injury reporting across studies and a lack of standardized measurement. TRIAL REGISTRATION The review was registered in the PROSPERO, an international database of prospectively registered systematic reviews in health and social care (CRD42021284685).
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Affiliation(s)
- MinJung Kyung
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, Suite #N-505, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Soo-Jeong Lee
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, Suite #N-505, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Caroline Dancu
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, Suite #N-505, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - OiSaeng Hong
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, Suite #N-505, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
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Razavi S, De EJB. Ergonomics in Urology: Silent Contributor to Burnout Among Women in Urology? Urology 2023; 173:222-225. [PMID: 36566785 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Razavi
- The Arthur Smith Institute for Urology, New York, NY.
| | - Elise J B De
- Department of Urology, Albany Medical college, Albany, NY
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Evoy R, Syron L, Case S, Lucas D. Traumatic injuries among Alaska's young workers: Linking cases from four data systems. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:57. [PMID: 36624461 PMCID: PMC9830688 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14676-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young workers (aged 15-24 years) experience higher rates of job-related injury compared with workers aged 25-44 years in the United States. Young workers may have limited or no prior work experience or safety training, which can contribute to their injury risk. In 2018, Alaska had the second highest work-related fatality rate and 14th highest non-fatal injury rate in the United States. This study aimed to characterize nonfatal and fatal occupational injuries among young workers in Alaska. METHODS To describe injury patterns among Alaska young workers from 2014-2018, we used data from four datasets: Alaska Workers' Compensation, Alaska Occupational Injury Surveillance System, Alaska Trauma Registry, and Alaska Fishermen's Fund. The datasets were merged two at a time and filtered by the worker characteristics (e.g., age and sex) and incident characteristics (e.g., date of injury). Duplicates were then manually identified between the datasets using the variables above. The injury narrative and Occupational Injury and Illness Classification System codes were used last to verify true duplicates. Descriptive analyses were performed after the duplicates were merged. RESULTS During the 5-year study period 2014-2018, young workers experienced 20 fatal and 12,886 nonfatal injuries. Residents of Alaska comprised 85% of nonfatal and 70% of fatal injuries. The top three major occupation groups with the highest number of injuries were production (1,391, 14%), food preparation (1,225, 12%), and transportation/material moving (1,166, 11%). The most common events leading to injuries were struck by object or equipment (2,027, 21%), overexertion involving outside sources (1,385, 14%), and struck against object or equipment (905, 9%). The most common nature of injuries were sprains/strains/tears (3,024, 29%), cuts/lacerations (1,955, 19%), and bruises/contusions (1,592, 15%). CONCLUSION Although progress has been made in reducing worker injuries, Alaskan young workers still experience injuries and fatalities frequently. Based on findings, there is a clear need for employers, researchers, public health professionals, parents, and young workers to prioritize young worker safety through an integrated approach, from education and training to adequate workplace supervision and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Evoy
- grid.416809.20000 0004 0423 0663Western States Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4230 University Dr #310, Anchorage, AK 99508 USA
| | - Laura Syron
- grid.416809.20000 0004 0423 0663Western States Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Spokane, WA USA
| | - Samantha Case
- grid.416809.20000 0004 0423 0663Western States Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4230 University Dr #310, Anchorage, AK 99508 USA
| | - Devin Lucas
- grid.416809.20000 0004 0423 0663Western States Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4230 University Dr #310, Anchorage, AK 99508 USA
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10
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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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11
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Mudenha WF, Naicker N, Singh T. Impact of the macro-environment on the reporting of occupational injuries and illnesses by low-income workers compared to middle-income workers in South Africa: a mixed-methods study protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063384. [PMID: 36002208 PMCID: PMC9413165 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Construction workers, mineworkers and manufacturing employees in South Africa must report occupational injuries and illnesses to their employer as stipulated in section 14 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and section 22 of the Mine Health and Safety Act. However, under-reporting of workplace injuries and illnesses is common globally.This protocol seeks to ascertain if macro-environment factors impact reporting of workplace injuries and illnesses and compare reporting between low-income and middle-income workers. METHODS AND ANALYSIS To achieve the objectives of the study, a sequential mixed-methods research design will be adopted. A questionnaire will be distributed among low-income and middle-income workers from nine companies in Gauteng from the construction, mining and manufacturing sectors to establish macro-environment factors that impact their reporting. In addition, a data extraction sheet will be submitted to compensation fund administrators who receive and process workers' compensation claims to determine reporting patterns by low-income and middle-income workers. In-depth interviews will be conducted with occupational health and safety subject matter experts in South Africa to ascertain their opinion regarding factors that impact reporting. Data will be analysed using SPSS V.27. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Prior to the commencement of the study, ethical approval and permission will be obtained from the University of Johannesburg Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee. The researcher intends to publish the results of the study in peer-reviewed journals and present research papers at scientific conferences and provide feedback to employers and employees across all three industries. The study shall determine associations in reporting between the manufacturing, mining and construction sectors and establish interventions employers can implement for workers to report injuries and illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wellington Farai Mudenha
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Nisha Naicker
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Tanusha Singh
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
- Immunology & Microbiology, National Institute for Occupational Health, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
- Department of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Macpherson RA, Neis B, McLeod CB. Differences in workers' compensation claim rates for within-province and out-of-province workers in British Columbia, Canada, 2010-2017. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:214-227. [PMID: 35092041 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23327] [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: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the work-related injury and illness risk of out-of-province workers. This study examines whether there are differences in work-related injury and illness claim rates between within-province and out-of-province workers in British Columbia (BC), Canada. METHODS Workers' compensation claim data for injuries and illnesses in BC from 2010 to 2017 were linked with denominator data from Statistics Canada. Multivariable negative binomial regression estimated the claim rate ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for out-of-province workers with all, health care-only (HCO), short-term disability, long-term disability, and fatality (SLF), and serious injury (SI) claims, compared to within-province workers. RESULTS Compared to within-province workers, out-of-province workers had a lower total claim rate (RR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.52-0.57), adjusting for sex, age, industry sector, and year. Differences in rates differed by claim type, with the largest differences for HCO claims (RR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.47-0.52) and smallest differences for SI claims (RR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.78-0.92). Sex-stratified models showed larger differences for males than females, with older female out-of-province workers having elevated SI claim rates. Industry-specific models showed that, even in sectors with high proportions of out-of-province workers' claims, these workers have lower claim rates than within-province workers. CONCLUSIONS Out-of-province workers generally have lower claim rates than within-province workers. The overall duration of work exposure, and underreporting or underclaiming, are factors that may explain these lower claim rates. Understanding the determinants and differences of these claim rates may improve the administration and adjudication of claims while also identifying where further prevention measures may be merited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A. Macpherson
- Partnership for Work, Health and Safety, School of Population and Public Health University of British Columbia Vancouver Canada
| | - Barbara Neis
- Department of Sociology Memorial University of Newfoundland St. John's Canada
| | - Christopher B. McLeod
- Partnership for Work, Health and Safety, School of Population and Public Health University of British Columbia Vancouver Canada
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Racial and Ethnic Differences in the Perceptions of Health, Work Environment and Experiences of Work-Related Symptoms Among Cleaning Workers. J Immigr Minor Health 2022; 24:1398-1407. [DOI: 10.1007/s10903-022-01328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThis study explored racial and ethnic differences in perception of work environment, safe work practices, general health status, experience of work-related injury or illness and subsequent symptom reporting and health care seeking behaviors among cleaning workers. This study analyzed cross-sectional data obtained from 183 cleaning workers employed in a university hospital or a health sciences campus in Northern California. The sample included 120 Asians (65.6%), 37 Hispanics (20.2%), and 27 other ethnicities (14.2%); 85.7% were foreign-born. Asian workers perceived lower job control and supervisor support and higher job strain than other workers. The odds of perceiving general health as excellent or very good were lower among Asians compared to Hispanics and Others. Asians who experienced chemical-related symptoms were less likely than Hispanics and others to report the symptoms to their supervisor or seek healthcare. Our study findings indicated racial/ethnic differences in perceptions of work and general health, seeking healthcare, and reporting behaviors among cleaning workers. Asian workers, specifically, may need special attention to improve their experiences of work environments and health in the workplace.
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Stannard J, Finch CF, Fortington LV. Improving musculoskeletal injury surveillance methods in Special Operation Forces: A Delphi consensus study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000096. [PMID: 36962170 PMCID: PMC10021797 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal injury mitigation is a priority in military organisations to protect personnel health and sustain a capable workforce. Despite efforts to prevent injury, inconsistencies exist in the evidence used to support these activities. There are many known limitations in the injury surveillance data reported in previous Special Operation Forces (SOF) research. Such studies often lack accurate, reliable, and complete data to inform and evaluate injury prevention activities. This research aimed to achieve expert consensus on injury surveillance methods in SOF to enhance the quality of data that could be used to inform injury prevention in this population. A Delphi study was conducted with various military injury surveillance stakeholders to seek agreement on improving surveillance methods in SOF. Iterative questionnaires using close and open-ended questions were used to collect views about surveillance methods related to injury case definitions and identifying essential and optional data requirements. Consensus was predefined as 75% group agreement on an item. Sixteen participants completed two rounds of questionnaires required. Consensus was achieved for 17.9% (n = 7) of questions in the first-round and 77.5% (n = 38) of round two questions. Several challenges for surveillance were identified, including recording injury causation, SOF personnel's injury reporting behaviours influencing accurate data collection, and surveillance system infrastructure limitations. Key military injury surveillance stakeholders support the need for improved data collection to enhance the evidence that underpins injury prevention efforts. The consensus process has resulted in preliminary recommendations to support future SOF injury surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Stannard
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Caroline F Finch
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Lauren V Fortington
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
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15
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Ménard AD, Flynn E, Soucie K, Trant JF. Accident Experiences and Reporting Practices in Canadian Chemistry and Biochemistry Laboratories: A Pilot Investigation. ACS CHEMICAL HEALTH & SAFETY 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chas.1c00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Dana Ménard
- Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, Ontario N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - Emma Flynn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, Ontario N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - Kendall Soucie
- Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, Ontario N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - John F. Trant
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, Ontario N9B 3P4, Canada
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16
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Why Workers Hesitate to Report Their Work-Related Musculoskeletal Symptoms: A Survey at a Korean Semiconductor Company. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111221. [PMID: 34769740 PMCID: PMC8583543 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Underreporting work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) has been an issue in South Korea. The purpose of this survey was to figure out how many employees of a semiconductor and liquid crystal display company in South Korea experience WRMSDs and what the possible obstacles in reporting to the company are. A survey was developed with demographic questions, perceived WRMSD symptoms, and reasons for reporting or not reporting WRMSD. The survey was distributed via the company's intranet to all employees (24,380) whose employee identification number ended with an odd number. A total of 2862 employees completed the survey and the response rate was 11.7%. A total of 55.2% of respondents had felt at least one musculoskeletal symptom during the past year. More than 40% of workers who had experienced pain or discomfort during the past year thought their symptoms were more than 50%. work-related. More than one-fourth of respondents answered that they did not report their symptoms to the company more than once. The open-ended answers for not reporting WRMSD were categorized into seven common reasons. The reasons for not reporting WRMSD in previous studies show a combination of personal, organizational, socioeconomical, and cultural factors. To encourage and manage WRMSD effectively, seven recommendations of authors are described.
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17
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Hillesheim D, Zucki F, Roggia SM, Paiva KMD. [Self-reported hearing impairment and occupational exposure to hazardous noise and ototoxic agents: a population-based study]. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2021; 37:e00202220. [PMID: 34644758 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00202220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study's objective was to estimate the association between self-reported hearing impairment and occupational exposure to hazardous noise and ototoxic agents in Brazilian workers. This was a cross-sectional study with data from the Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS-2013). The dependent variable was self-reported hearing impairment, and three principal exposures were analyzed: noise, industrial dust, and chemical substances. Logistic regression was performed, estimating crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The principal exposure variables were adjusted for each other and by covariables sex, age, workplace, time on the job, and hypertension. 36,442 workers participated in the study. Higher prevalence of hearing impairment was seen in workers exposed to industrial dust (9.9%) (p < 0.001). The older the worker and the longer the time on the job, the higher the prevalence of hearing impairment (p < 0.001). In the adjusted analysis, workers exposed to noise showed 1.65 higher odds of reporting difficulty hearing, when compared to unexposed individuals (p < 0.001). The same was true for workers exposed to industrial dust (OR = 1.36) (p = 0.012). No association was observed between the outcome and exposure to chemical substances (p = 0.120). There was an association between hearing impairment and occupational exposure to noise and industrial dust in Brazilian workers. This emphasizes the importance of strengthening public policies for hearing health and the development of measures for prevention and auditory monitoring in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danúbia Hillesheim
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brasil
| | - Fernanda Zucki
- Departamento de Fonoaudiologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brasil
| | - Simone Mariotti Roggia
- Departamento de Fonoaudiologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brasil
| | - Karina Mary de Paiva
- Departamento de Fonoaudiologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brasil
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Kreshpaj B, Bodin T, Wegman DH, Matilla-Santander N, Burstrom B, Kjellberg K, Davis L, Hemmingsson T, Jonsson J, Håkansta C, Orellana C. Under-reporting of non-fatal occupational injuries among precarious and non-precarious workers in Sweden. Occup Environ Med 2021; 79:3-9. [PMID: 34544894 PMCID: PMC8685629 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2021-107856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Under-reporting of occupational injuries (OIs) among precariously employed workers in Sweden challenges effective surveillance of OIs and targeted preventive measures. Objective To estimate the magnitude of under-reporting of OIs among precarious and non-precarious workers in Sweden in 2013. Methods Capture–recapture methods were applied using the national OIs register and records from a labour market insurance company. Employed workers 18–65 resident in Sweden in 2013 were included in the study (n=82 949 OIs). Precarious employment was operationalised using the national labour market register, while injury severity was constructed from the National Patient Register. Under-reporting estimates were computed stratifying by OIs severity and by sociodemographic characteristics, occupations and precarious employment. Results Under-reporting of OIs followed a dose–response pattern according to the levels of precariousness (the higher the precarious level, the higher the under-reporting) being for the precarious group (22.6%, 95% CI 21.3% to 23.8%), followed by the borderline precarious (17.6%, 95% CI 17.1% to 18.2%) and lastly the non-precarious (15.0%, 95% CI 14.7% to 15.3%). Under-reporting of OIs, decreased as the injury severity increased and was higher with highest level of precariousness in all groups of severity. We also observed higher under-reporting estimates among all occupations in the precarious and borderline precarious groups as compared with the non-precarious ones. Conclusions This is the first register-based study to empirically demonstrate in Sweden that under-reporting of OIs is 50% higher among precariously employed workers. OIs under-reporting may represent unrecognised injuries that especially burden precariously employed workers as financial, health and social consequences shift from the employer to the employee.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertina Kreshpaj
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Theo Bodin
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David H Wegman
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nuria Matilla-Santander
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo Burstrom
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katarina Kjellberg
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Tomas Hemmingsson
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johanna Jonsson
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carin Håkansta
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Working Life Science, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Orellana
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Whittem T, Woodward AP, Hoppach M. A Survey of Injuries That Occurred in Veterinary Teaching Hospitals during 2017. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 48:401-416. [PMID: 33433305 DOI: 10.3138/jvme-2019-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Knowing the frequency, extent or severity of injuries that occur to students and staff within veterinary teaching hospitals (VTHs) is necessary for proactive management of their safety. This study surveyed contemporaneously-captured incident reports likely to cause or causing injury to students and staff of veterinary teaching hospitals in Europe, the United States of America (USA), Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, recorded in 2017. Four different severities of incident were evaluated within four different cohorts of people, precipitated by five categories for cause. Within each cause-category, further subdivision was based on the nature of the incident. All colleges of veterinary medicine accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education (COE) or the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council were surveyed. Responses were received from (7/7, 100%) schools in Australia and New Zealand, 12/30 (40%) the United States of America, 1/4 (25%) Canada, 1/1 (100%) Mexico, and 1/3 (33%) United Kingdom, and no responses were received from the AVMA-COE accredited schools in the European Union. The mean incidence of incidents caused by horses was (0.4/1,000 cases), followed by food animals (0.1/1,000 cases), other animals (0.1/1,000 cases), and small animals (0.074/1,000 cases). Within veterinary teaching hospitals at many institutions, veterinary students and veterinarians are particularly at risk of injuries caused by hand-held instruments, such as scalpels and needles. Non-veterinary staff are more at risk than students or veterinarians from injuries caused by small animals. Recording and reporting of incidents is not uniform and may be lacking in detail. Some institutions' systems for record management preclude easy evaluation, and therefore may be insufficient for proactive management of health and safety as required by accreditation bodies.
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20
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Yang L, Branscum A, Bovbjerg V, Cude C, Weston C, Kincl L. Assessing disabling and non-disabling injuries and illnesses using accepted workers compensation claims data to prioritize industries of high risk for Oregon young workers. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2021; 77:241-254. [PMID: 34092315 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young workers are especially vulnerable to occupational injuries and illnesses. There is a continued need to investigate injury burden among young workers across demographics and industry to inform targeted interventions. Workers compensation (WC) claims are important for quantifying work-related injuries and illnesses, however published studies have focused on disabling claims. This study extended previous research on Oregon young workers by including the most recent WC claims data to identify patterns of injury and high risk industries. METHODS We obtained all accepted disabling claims (N = 13,360) and a significant portion of non-disabling claims (N = 24,660) on workers aged 24 years and under from 2013 to 2018. Claim count, rate and cost were calculated by year, age, gender, industry, and injury type. A prevention index (PI) method was used to rank industries in order to inform prevention efforts. RESULTS Average annual disabling and non-disabling claim rates were 111.6 and 401.3 per 10,000 young workers. Workers aged 19-21 (disabling: 119.0 per 10,000 and non-disabling: 429.3) and 22-24 years (115.7 and 396.4) and male workers (145.3 and 509.0) had higher claim rates than workers aged 14-18 (80.6 and 297.0) and female workers (79.8 and 282.9). The most frequent injury types were "struck by/against" (35.6%) and "work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)" (19.5%). High risk industries included agriculture, construction, and manufacturing for both genders combined. For female young workers, the highest risk industry was healthcare. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the added value of non-disabling WC claims data. Using both disabling and non-disabling data and PI method, agriculture, construction, manufacturing and healthcare industries were identified as priority workplaces to prevent common and costly injuries among Oregon young workers. Practical Applications: While the industries identified are considered hazardous for all workers, findings in this study can guide targeted research and prevention efforts specific to young workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Oregon State University, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, United States.
| | - Adam Branscum
- Oregon State University, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, United States
| | - Viktor Bovbjerg
- Oregon State University, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, United States
| | - Curtis Cude
- Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division, United States
| | - Crystal Weston
- Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division, United States
| | - Laurel Kincl
- Oregon State University, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, United States
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21
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Turner N, Granger S, Tucker S, Deng C, Kelloway EK. Parents' work injuries and children's mental health: The moderating role of children's work centrality. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2021; 77:61-66. [PMID: 34092329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between parents' work-related injuries and their children's mental health, and whether children's work centrality - the extent to which a child believes work will play an important part in their life - exacerbates or buffers this relationship. METHOD We argue that high work centrality can exacerbate the relationship between parental work injuries and children's mental health, with parental work injuries acting as identity-threatening stressors; in contrast, high work centrality may buffer this relationship, with parental work injuries acting as identity-confirming stressors. We test this relationship with a sample of Canadian children (N = 4,884, 46.2% female, M age = 13.67 years). RESULTS Children whose parents had experienced more frequent lost-time work-related injuries reported worse mental health with high work centrality buffering this negative relationship. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the vicarious effects of work injuries on salient others, specifically parental work injuries on children's mental health, as well as the role of work centrality in shaping children's sense-making and expectations about the consequences of work.
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22
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Lee SJ, Kyung M, Leung C, Hong O. Gender differences in experience and reporting of acute symptoms among cleaning staff. Am J Ind Med 2021; 64:528-539. [PMID: 33811668 PMCID: PMC8562058 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cleaning tasks pose risks of hazardous chemical exposure and adverse health effects for cleaning workers. We examined gender differences among cleaning staff in the experience of chemical-related symptoms and in reporting to supervisors. METHODS We analyzed cross-sectional reports from 171 university hospital or campus cleaning staff on chemical exposures to cleaning products, experience of acute symptoms, reporting of symptoms to supervisors, as well as demographic and psychosocial factors (risk perception, job demand/control, supervisor/co-worker support, and safety climate). Results were analized using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for demographic, job, and psychosocial factors. Interactions of gender and psychosocial variables were also examined. RESULTS Men and women reported different frequencies for exposure-related tasks. Acute symptoms of chemical exposure were more prevalent in women compared with men (46.0% vs. 25.4%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.63; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27-5.46). Women were more concerned about exposure to cleaning chemicals (p = 0.029) but reported symptoms to their supervisor less often than men (18.5% vs. 40.6%, adjusted OR = 0.28; 95% CI 0.09-0.93). More supervisor support was significantly associated with less frequent symptom experience among women (OR = 0.83; 95% CI 0.70-0.99). Asian workers and less educated workers were less likely than others to report symptoms to supervisors. Gender differences in symptom reporting to supervisors were not explained by psychosocial factors. CONCLUSIONS Women may have increased susceptibility or perception of symptoms from cleaning compared to men, but this may be mitigated by supervisor support. Female Asian workers with lower education may perceive more significant barriers in reporting work-related symptoms to supervisors. Further research is needed to explore factors related to underreporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo-Jeong Lee
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Minjung Kyung
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Cherry Leung
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - OiSaeng Hong
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Zahiri Harsini A, Ghofranipour F, Sanaeinasab H, Amin Shokravi F, Bohle P, Matthews LR. Factors associated with unsafe work behaviours in an Iranian petrochemical company: perspectives of workers, supervisors, and safety managers. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1192. [PMID: 32736619 PMCID: PMC7393823 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09286-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The petrochemical industry is hazardous, in part because of the inherently dangerous nature of the work conducted, and incidents frequently result in significant financial and social losses. The most common immediate cause of incidents and injuries in this industry is unsafe worker behaviour. Identifying the factors encouraging unsafe work behaviours is the first step in taking action to discourage them. The aim of this study was to (a) explore workers', supervisors' and safety managers' attitudes and perceptions of safety in a petrochemical company in Iran, and (b) identify the factors that discourage safe work behaviours. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted by applying the steps described by Graneheim and Lundman (2004). Twenty participants were recruited from an Iranian petrochemical company using a multi-stage approach, with initial purposive sampling followed by snowball sampling to enhance recruitment. Individual face-to-face and semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain an in-depth understanding of factors acting as barriers to safe behaviour. The interviews were recorded and transcribed in Persian and then translated into English. Conventional content analysis was performed. RESULTS The main themes emerging from the interviews were: (i) poor direct safety management and supervision; (ii) unsafe workplace conditions; (iii) workers' perceptions, skills and training; and (iv) broader organisational factors. CONCLUSIONS The findings give insights into practical organisational measures that can be implemented by management to promote workers' commitment to safety and engage in safe behaviours in their workplace. TRIAL REGISTRATION Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20170515033981N2 . Retrospectively registered 19 June 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azita Zahiri Harsini
- grid.412266.50000 0001 1781 3962Department of Health Education, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
- grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XFaculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Fazlollah Ghofranipour
- grid.412266.50000 0001 1781 3962Department of Health Education, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hormoz Sanaeinasab
- grid.411521.20000 0000 9975 294XHealth Research Center, Lifestyle institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farkhondeh Amin Shokravi
- grid.412266.50000 0001 1781 3962Department of Health Education, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
| | - Philip Bohle
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XTasmanian School of Business and Economics, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 84, Hobart, Tasmania 7001 Australia
| | - Lynda R. Matthews
- grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XWork and Health Research Team, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Free H, Groenewold MR, Luckhaupt SE. Lifetime Prevalence of Self-Reported Work-Related Health Problems Among U.S. Workers - United States, 2018. MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2020; 69:361-365. [PMID: 32240124 PMCID: PMC7119516 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6913a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Free
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, CDC
| | - Matthew R Groenewold
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, CDC
| | - Sara E Luckhaupt
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, CDC
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25
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Paolillo A, Silva SA, Carvalho H, Pasini M. Exploring patterns of multiple climates and their effects on safety performance at the department level. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2020; 72:47-60. [PMID: 32199577 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2019.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This paper represents a first attempt to fill a gap in research about different specific climates and safety outcomes, by empirically identifying patterns of climates and exploring the possible effect of different climates at the department level on some specific safety outcomes. The first objective was to explore how different specific climates (safety, communication, diversity and inclusion) can be associated to each other, considering the department level of analysis. The second objective was to examine the relationships between those patterns of climates with safety performance (compliance and participation behaviors). METHOD A total of 429 blue-collar workers in 35 departments answered a questionnaire covering safety, diversity, inclusion, and communication climate measures. Cluster analysis was performed to identify clusters of departments with different climate patterns and their impact on safety compliance and safety participation behaviors. Subsequently, a hierarchical multiple linear regression was conducted at the individual-level to test the effect of climate patterns, by controlling for some sociodemographic variables. RESULTS Results showed the existence of four differentiated clusters of departments. Three of those clusters showed homogenous patterns (coherent association among perceptions of low, medium and high climates) and one heterogeneous (low and medium perceptions). The findings also revealed that the higher the climates perceptions, the higher the levels of safety participation and safety compliance, with safety participation being more affected than compliance. CONCLUSIONS The present research showed the associated effects of some organizational climate factors, such as fair treatment, inclusion, safety and communication within the organization, which had not been previously studied in their combined relationships, on safety behaviors. Practical applications: Several other organizational climate factors, such as fair treatment, inclusiveness and communication, may play an important role in safety, showing the importance of broadening the focus on safety climate as one of the main predictors of safety behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Paolillo
- Department of Management, Kingston Business School, Kingston University London, Kingston Hill, Kingston upon Thames KT2 7LB, United Kingdom.
| | - Silvia A Silva
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), BRU-IUL, Portugal
| | - Helena Carvalho
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), CIES-IUL, Portugal
| | - Margherita Pasini
- Department of Philosophy, Education and Psychology, University of Verona, Italy
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Black KJ, Munc A, Sinclair RR, Cheung JH. Stigma at work: The psychological costs and benefits of the pressure to work safely. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2019; 70:181-191. [PMID: 31847993 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Workplace accidents and injuries can be quite costly to both individual employees and their organizations. While safety climate (i.e., perceptions of policies and procedures related to safety that should reflect an organization's value of safety) has been established as a predictor of safety behaviors, less research has considered the possible negative pressures that could result from an environment that emphasizes safety. Though organizations may intend to create a positive safety climate, concerns about being treated differently if an employee were to be involved in a safety incident may result in unintended, but detrimental safety and health outcomes. METHOD This study investigated the stigma associated with being involved in a safety-related incident in relation to self-reported safety behaviors and psychological health outcomes. The data were acquired through a two-wave prospective design, surveying workers from Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk; N = 528) who indicated they were exposed to at least one physical work stressor (e.g., heavy lifting; air quality; standing for extended periods) a few times each month or more. RESULTS When controlling for safety climate, safety stigma was related to decreased safety compliance and poorer psychological health. There was a marginally significant interaction between safety stigma and safety motivation in relation to safety compliance. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that experiencing pressure to work safely, for fear of being evaluated negatively, may actually come at the cost of employees' safety compliance and psychological health. Practical applications: These results may be useful in assessing and intervening to improve an organization's safety climate. Organizations should closely examine the climate for safety to ensure that positive aspects of safety are not undermined by a stigmatizing pressure associated with safety in the work environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alec Munc
- Square, Inc., San Francisco, CA, United States.
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Cherry N, Galarneau J, Haan M, Haynes W, Lippel K. Work injuries in internal migrants to Alberta, Canada. Do workers' compensation records provide an unbiased estimate of risk? Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:486-495. [PMID: 31074034 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is not known whether out-of-province Canadians, who travel to Alberta for work, are at increased risk of occupational injury. METHODS Workers' compensation board (WCB) claims in 2013 to 2015 for those injured in Alberta were extracted by home province. Denominator data, from Statistics Canada, indicated the numbers from Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) employed in Alberta in 2012. Both datasets were stratified by industry, age, and gender. Logistic regression estimated the risk of a worker from NL making a WCB claim in 2013 or 2014, stratified by time lost from work. Bias from under-reporting was examined in responses to injury questions in a cohort of trades' workers across Canada and in a pilot study in Fort McMurray, Alberta. RESULTS Injury reporting rate in workers from NL was lower than those from Alberta, with a marked deficit (odds ratio [OR] = 0.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.12-0.27) for injuries resulting in 1 to 30 days off work. Among the 1520 from Alberta in the trades' cohort, 327 participants reported 444 work injuries: 34.5% were reported to the WCB, rising to 69.4% in those treated by a physician. A total of 52 injuries in Alberta were recorded by 151 workers in the Fort McMurray cohort. In logistic regression, very similar factors predicted WCB reporting in the trades and Fort McMurray cohorts, but those from out-of-province or recently settled in Alberta were much less likely to report (OR = 0.02; 95% CI, 0.00-0.40). CONCLUSION Differential rates of under-reporting explain in part the overall low estimates of injuries in interprovincial workers but not the deficit in time-loss 1 to 30 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cherry
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmonton Canada
| | - Jean‐Michel Galarneau
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmonton Canada
| | - Michael Haan
- Department of SociologyWestern University, LondonOntario Canada
| | - Whitney Haynes
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of MedicineUniversity of AlbertaEdmonton Canada
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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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Sabongi RG, Erazo JP, de Moraes VY, Fernandes CH, dos Santos JBG, Faloppa F, Belloti JC. Circular saw misuse is related to upper limb injuries: a cross-sectional study. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2019; 74:e1076. [PMID: 31508715 PMCID: PMC6724453 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2019/e1076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Machinery injuries account for a substantial share of traumatic upper limb injuries (TULIs) affecting young active individuals. This study is based on the hypothesis that there is an important relationship between the improper use of power saws and TULIs. The aim of the study is to assess the prevalence and epidemiology of TULIs caused by power saws and determine the risks related to power saw use. METHODS A cross-sectional evaluation of medical records from a two-year period was performed. Patients sustaining TULIs related to power saws were analyzed. Data on the epidemiology, site of injury, mechanism of trauma, technical specifications of the tool, cutting material, personal protective equipment, time lost and return to work were obtained. RESULTS A database search retrieved 193 TULI records, of which 104 were related to power saws. The majority of patients were male (102/104; 98.1%), right-handed (97/104; 93.3%), and manual workers (46/104; 44.2%), with an average age of 46.8 years. The thumb was the most frequently injured site (32/93; 34.4%). Most of the injuries were caused by manual saws (85/104; 81.7%), and masonry saws accounted for 68.2% (58/85) of the cases. Masonry saws improperly used for woodwork resulted in 86.2% (50/58) of the injuries. TULI caused by masonry saws was 5 times higher in manual workers than in other patients. In addition, masonry saws had a risk of kickback 15 times higher than that of other saws, and the risk of injury increased by 5.25 times when the saws were used improperly for wood cutting. CONCLUSIONS The profile of TULIs related to power saws was demonstrated and was mainly associated with manual saws operated by manual workers that inappropriately used masonry saws for woodworking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Guerra Sabongi
- Disciplina de Cirurgia da Mao e Membro Superior, Departamento Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Jaime Piccaro Erazo
- Disciplina de Cirurgia da Mao e Membro Superior, Departamento Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Vinicius Ynoe de Moraes
- Disciplina de Cirurgia da Mao e Membro Superior, Departamento Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Carlos Henrique Fernandes
- Disciplina de Cirurgia da Mao e Membro Superior, Departamento Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - João Baptista Gomes dos Santos
- Disciplina de Cirurgia da Mao e Membro Superior, Departamento Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Flávio Faloppa
- Disciplina de Cirurgia da Mao e Membro Superior, Departamento Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - João Carlos Belloti
- Disciplina de Cirurgia da Mao e Membro Superior, Departamento Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
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Jennifer S, Purewal BP, Macpherson A, Pike I. Metrics to assess injury prevention programs for young workers in high-risk occupations: a scoping review of the literature. HEALTH PROMOTION AND CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION IN CANADA-RESEARCH POLICY AND PRACTICE 2018; 38:191-199. [PMID: 29767619 DOI: 10.24095/hpcdp.38.5.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite legal protections for young workers in Canada, youth aged 15-24 are at high risk of traumatic occupational injury. While many injury prevention initiatives targeting young workers exist, the challenge faced by youth advocates and employers is deciding what aspect(s) of prevention will be the most effective focus for their efforts. A review of the academic and grey literatures was undertaken to compile the metrics-both the indicators being evaluated and the methods of measurement-commonly used to assess injury prevention programs for young workers. Metrics are standards of measurement through which efficiency, performance, progress, or quality of a plan, process, or product can be assessed. METHODS A PICO framework was used to develop search terms. Medline, PubMed, OVID, EMBASE, CCOHS, PsychINFO, CINAHL, NIOSHTIC, Google Scholar and the grey literature were searched for articles in English, published between 1975-2015. Two independent reviewers screened the resulting list and categorized the metrics in three domains of injury prevention: Education, Environment and Enforcement. RESULTS Of 174 acquired articles meeting the inclusion criteria, 21 both described and assessed an intervention. Half were educational in nature (N=11). Commonly assessed metrics included: knowledge, perceptions, self-reported behaviours or intentions, hazardous exposures, injury claims, and injury counts. One study outlined a method for developing metrics to predict injury rates. CONCLUSION Metrics specific to the evaluation of young worker injury prevention programs are needed, as current metrics are insufficient to predict reduced injuries following program implementation. One study, which the review brought to light, could be an appropriate model for future research to develop valid leading metrics specific to young workers, and then apply these metrics to injury prevention programs for youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smith Jennifer
- BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Alison Macpherson
- Faculty of Health, School of Kinesiology & Health Science, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ian Pike
- BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Jiang L, Probst TM, Benson W, Byrd J. Voices carry: Effects of verbal and physical aggression on injuries and accident reporting. ACCIDENT; ANALYSIS AND PREVENTION 2018. [PMID: 29519553 DOI: 10.1016/j.aap.2018.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed a staggeringly high number of workplace aggressive behaviors as well as employee accidents and injuries. Exposure to workplace aggression is associated with a host of negative psychological, emotional, and physiological outcomes, yet research relating workplace aggression to employee safety outcomes is lacking. This study aims to examine the association between exposure to workplace physical and verbal aggression with workplace injuries and underreporting of accidents and near misses. Furthermore, deriving from social exchange theory, we attempt to reveal an underlying mechanism in the association between workplace aggression and underreporting of accidents and near misses. Finally, borrowing from aggression research on intimate relationships, we compare the relative importance of exposure to physical and verbal aggression on workplace injuries and underreporting. Using survey data from 364 public transportation personnel, we found that both verbal and physical aggression significantly predict workplace injuries as well as underreporting. Moreover, mediation analyses found that the relationship between verbal and physical aggression and underreporting was largely explained by an increase in negative reporting attitudes (rather than decreases in safety knowledge or motivation). Compared to exposure to physical aggression, exposure to verbal aggression best predicted employee underreporting of accidents and near misses. However, physical aggression was a better predictor of injuries than verbal aggression. Given these findings, organizational leaders should strive to foster a safe working environment by minimizing interpersonal mistreatment and increasing employee attitudes for reporting accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Jiang
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Tahira M Probst
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Vancouver, WA, United States
| | - Wendi Benson
- Department of Psychology, Nevada State College, Henderson, NV, United States
| | - Jesse Byrd
- Department of Labor and Industries, SHARP Program, Olympia, WA, United States
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Young Workers' Access to and Awareness of Occupational Safety and Health Services: Age-Differences and Possible Drivers in a Large Survey of Employees in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15071511. [PMID: 30018272 PMCID: PMC6069130 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15071511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Young workers are in particular need of occupational safety and health (OSH) services, but it is unclear whether they have the necessary access to such services. We compared young with older workers in terms of the access to and awareness of OSH services, and examined if differences in employment conditions accounted for age-differences. We used survey data from Italy (INSuLA 1, 2014), with a sample of 8000 employed men and women aged 19 to 65 years, including 732 young workers aged under 30 years. Six questions measured access to services, and five questions assessed awareness of different OSH issues. Several employment conditions were included. Analyses revealed that young workers had less access and a lower awareness of OSH issues compared with older workers. For instance, odds ratios (OR) suggest that young workers had a 1.44 times higher likelihood [95%—confidence interval 1.21–1.70] of having no access to an occupational physician, and were more likely (2.22 [1.39–3.38]) to be unaware of legal OSH frameworks. Adjustment for selected employment conditions (company size, temporary contract) substantially reduced OR’s, indicating that these conditions contribute to differences between older and younger workers. We conclude that OSH management should pay particular attention to young workers in general and, to young workers in precarious employment, and working in small companies in particular.
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Wuellner S, Phipps P. Employer knowledge of federal requirements for recording work-related injuries and illnesses: Implications for occupational injury surveillance data. Am J Ind Med 2018. [PMID: 29527706 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accuracy of the Bureau of Labor Statistics Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII) data is dependent on employer compliance with workplace injury and illness recordkeeping requirements. Characterization of employer recordkeeping can inform efforts to improve the data. METHODS We interviewed representative samples of SOII respondents from four states to identify common recordkeeping errors and to assess employer characteristics associated with limited knowledge of the recordkeeping requirements and non compliant practices. RESULTS Less than half of the establishments required to maintain OSHA injury and illness records reported doing so. Few establishments knew to omit cases limited to diagnostic services (22%) and to count unscheduled weekend days as missed work (27%). No single state or establishment characteristic was consistently associated with better or worse record-keeping. CONCLUSION Many employers possess a limited understanding of workplace injury recordkeeping requirements, potentially leading them to over-report minor incidents, and under-report missed work cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Wuellner
- Washington State Department of Labor and Industries; Olympia Washington
| | - Polly Phipps
- US Department of Labor; Bureau of Labor Statistics; Washington District of Columbia
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Farnacio Y, Pratt ME, Marshall EG, Graber JM. Are Workplace Psychosocial Factors Associated With Work-Related Injury in the US Workforce? J Occup Environ Med 2017; 59:e164-e171. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Pek S, Turner N, Tucker S, Kelloway EK, Morrish J. Injunctive safety norms, young worker risk-taking behaviors, and workplace injuries. ACCIDENT; ANALYSIS AND PREVENTION 2017; 106:202-210. [PMID: 28641090 DOI: 10.1016/j.aap.2017.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Injunctive safety norms (ISNs) refer to perceptions of others' expectations of one's safety-related conduct. Drawing on a sample of Canadian young workers (n=11,986;M age=17.90years; 55% males), we study the relationships among four sources of non-work-related (i.e., parents, siblings, friends, teachers), two sources of work-related (i.e., supervisors, co-workers) ISNs, young workers' self-reported work-related risk-taking behaviors, and workplace injuries. Structural equation modeling suggests that ISNs from parents, supervisors, and co-workers were related to less frequent work-related risk-taking behaviors, and with fewer workplace injuries via less frequent work-related risk-taking behaviors. In addition, ISNs from supervisors were directly associated with fewer workplace injuries. In contrast, ISNs from teachers and siblings were not associated with work-related risk-taking behaviors, but ISNs from siblings were associated with fewer work injuries. Finally, ISNs from friends were associated with more frequent work-related risk-taking and more frequent work injuries via more frequent work-related risk-taking. This study draws attention to the relative roles of non-work sources of social influence and provides some evidence of how ISNs might be related to young workers' work-related risk-taking behaviors and their workplace injuries. It also contributes to practice by suggesting specific interventions that parents, supervisors, and co-workers could undertake to reduce young workers' work-related risk-taking and workplace injuries, namely encouraging youth to be safe at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Pek
- Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University, Canada.
| | - Nick Turner
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Sean Tucker
- Faculty of Business Administration, University of Regina, Canada
| | | | - Jayne Morrish
- Jack and Nora Walker Canadian Centre for Lifespan Development Research, Brock University, Canada
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Picchio M, van Ours JC. Temporary jobs and the severity of workplace accidents. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2017; 61:41-51. [PMID: 28454870 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION From the point of view of workplace safety, it is important to know whether having a temporary job has an effect on the severity of workplace accidents. We present an empirical analysis on the severity of workplace accidents by type of contract. METHOD We used microdata collected by the Italian national institute managing the mandatory insurance against work related accidents. We estimated linear models for a measure of the severity of the workplace accident. We controlled for time-invariant fixed effects at worker and firm levels to disentangle the impact of the type of contract from the spurious one induced by unobservables at worker and firm levels. RESULTS Workers with a temporary contract, if subject to a workplace accident, were more likely to be confronted with severe injuries than permanent workers. When correcting the statistical analysis for injury under-reporting of temporary workers, we found that most of, but not all, the effect is driven by the under-reporting bias. CONCLUSIONS The effect of temporary contracts on the injury severity survived the inclusion of worker and firm fixed effects and the correction for temporary workers' injury under-reporting. This, however, does not exclude the possibility that, within firms, the nature of the work may vary between different categories of workers. For example, temporary workers might be more likely to be assigned dangerous tasks because they might have less bargaining power. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS The findings will help in designing public policy effective in increasing temporary workers' safety at work and limiting their injury under-reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Picchio
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Economics and Social Sciences, Italy; Ghent University, Sherppa, Belgium; Tilburg University, CentER, The Netherlands; IZA, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Jan C van Ours
- Erasmus School of Economics and Tinbergen Institute, The Netherlands; University of Melbourne, Australia; IZA, Bonn, Germany; CEPR, London, United Kingdom; CESifo, Munich, Germany; CREAM, London, United Kingdom.
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Jung HS, Lee B. Factors associated with the occurrence of functional dyspepsia and insomnia in shift-working nurses. Work 2017; 54:93-101. [PMID: 27061691 DOI: 10.3233/wor-162283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In South Korea, people are growing more and more interested in the early detection and prevention of health problems in shift workers. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate demographic, work-related and health-related factors relevant to functional dyspepsia and insomnia in shift-working nurses in South Korea. METHODS The sample was comprised of 1431 nurses who worked rotating shifts in three large hospitals in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. The questionnaire consisted of factors assessing demographic, work-related and health-related characteristics. Rome III criteria and the Insomnia Severity Index were applied to identify functional dyspepsia and insomnia, respectively. The survey was ongoing for approximately one month starting from 17 June 2013. RESULTS The results of this study indicated that gender, body mass index, the number of night shifts worked, work-related stress, and regular dietary patterns were related to functional dyspepsia and insomnia in shift-working nurses. CONCLUSIONS This study may help establish suitable working conditions and build workplace health promotion programs for shift-working nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Sun Jung
- School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Bokim Lee
- Department of Nursing, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, South Korea
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McCloskey R, Donovan C, Donovan A. Linking Incidents in Long-Term Care Facilities to Worker Activities. Workplace Health Saf 2017; 65:457-466. [PMID: 28368696 DOI: 10.1177/2165079916680366] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This article reports on a study examining staff activities being performed when incidents were reported to have occurred. The risk for injury among health care providers who engage in patient handling activities is widely acknowledged. For those working in long-term care, the risk of occupational injury is particularly high. Although injuries and injury prevention have been widely studied, the work has generally focused on incident rates and the impact of specific assistive devices on worker safety. The purpose of this study was to examine reported staff incidents in relation to staff activities. A multicenter cross-sectional exploratory study used retrospective data from reported staff incidents (2010, 2011, and 2012) and prospective data from 360 hours of staff observations in five long-term care facilities during 2013. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. A total of 898 staff incidents were reviewed from the facilities. Incidents were most likely to occur in resident rooms. Resident aides were more likely to be engaged in high-risk activities than other care providers. Times when staff incidents were reported to have occurred were not associated with periods of high staff-to-resident contact. Safe handling during low and moderate risk activities should be promoted. Education on what constitutes a reportable incident and strategies to ensure compliance with reporting policies and procedures may be needed to ensure accuracy and completeness of incident data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose McCloskey
- 1 University of New Brunswick Saint John Department of Nursing & Health Sciences
| | - Cindy Donovan
- 1 University of New Brunswick Saint John Department of Nursing & Health Sciences
| | - Alicia Donovan
- 1 University of New Brunswick Saint John Department of Nursing & Health Sciences
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Vosbikian MM, Harper CM, Byers A, Gutman A, Novack V, Iorio ML. The Impact of Safety Regulations on the Incidence of Upper-Extremity Power Saw Injuries in the United States. J Hand Surg Am 2017; 42:296.e1-296.e10. [PMID: 28372641 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2017.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Over 50,000 power saw-related injuries occur annually in the United States. Numerous safety measures have been implemented to protect the users of these tools. This study was designed to determine which interventions, if any, have had a positive impact on the safety of the consumer or laborer. METHODS We queried the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database for hand and upper-extremity injuries attributed to power saws from 1997 to 2014. Demographic information including age, sex, date of injury, device, location, body part involved, diagnosis, and disposition was recorded. We performed statistical analysis using interrupted time series analysis to evaluate the incidence of injury with respect to specific safety guidelines as well as temporal trends including patients' age. RESULTS An 18% increase in power saw-related injuries was noted from 1997 (44,877) to 2005 (75,037). From 2006 to 2015 an annual decrease of 5.8% was observed. This was correlated with regulations for power saw use by the Consumer Safety Product Commission (CPSC) and Underwriters Laboratories. Mean age of injured patients increased from 48.8 to 52.9 years whereas the proportion of subjects aged less than 50 years decreased from 52.8% to 41.9%. These trends were most pronounced after the 2006 CPSC regulations. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of power saw injuries increased from 1997 to 2005, with a subsequent decrease from 2006 to 2015. The guidelines for safer operation and improvements in equipment, mandated by the CPSC and Underwriters Laboratories, appeared to have been successful in precipitating a decrease in the incidence of power saw injuries to the upper extremity, particularly in the younger population. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The publication of safety regulations has been noted to have an association with a decreased incidence in power saw injuries. Based on this, clinicians should take an active role in their practice as well as in their professional societies to educate and counsel patients to prevent further injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Vosbikian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Division of Plastic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center-Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Carl M Harper
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Division of Plastic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center-Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ashlyn Byers
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Division of Plastic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center-Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Adva Gutman
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Victor Novack
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center-Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Matthew L Iorio
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Division of Plastic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center-Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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Hall A. Trust, uncertainty and the reporting of workplaces hazards and injuries. HEALTH, RISK & SOCIETY 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/13698575.2016.1264576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Hall
- Department of Sociology, Memorial University, St. John’s, Canada
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Graves JM, Klein TA. Nurse Practitioners' Comfort in Treating Work-Related Injuries in Adolescents. Workplace Health Saf 2016; 64:404-13. [PMID: 27282977 DOI: 10.1177/2165079916653612] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study examined nurse practitioners' (NPs) previous experiences and comfort levels in treating adolescents with work-related injuries in two states where NPs have statutory authority to treat work-related injuries. The authors surveyed all actively licensed NPs in Washington and Oregon (N = 4,849). Factors associated with NPs' previous experiences and comfort in treating adolescents with work-related injuries were identified using modified Poisson regression. Less than a quarter of respondents (21.1%, n = 225) reported having ever treated an adolescent for a work-related injury. Nearly half (43.6%) of respondents reported being uncomfortable or very uncomfortable in treating adolescents with work-related injuries. Previous experience and male gender were associated with greater likelihood of feeling comfortable (p < .01). Nurse practitioners serve as primary care providers for adolescents who may experience work-related injuries. This study documents the need for developing educational and outreach efforts to better prepare NPs to treat adolescents' work-related injuries.
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Weaver MD, Patterson PD, Fabio A, Moore CG, Freiberg MS, Songer TJ. The association between weekly work hours, crew familiarity, and occupational injury and illness in emergency medical services workers. Am J Ind Med 2015; 58:1270-7. [PMID: 26391202 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers are shift workers in a high-risk, uncontrolled occupational environment. EMS-worker fatigue has been associated with self-reported injury, but the influence of extended weekly work hours is unknown. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was designed using historical shift schedules and occupational injury and illness reports. Using multilevel models, we examined the association between weekly work hours, crew familiarity, and injury or illness. RESULTS In total, 966,082 shifts and 950 reports across 14 EMS agencies were obtained over a 1-3 year period. Weekly work hours were not associated with occupational injury or illness. Schedule characteristics that yield decreased exposure to occupational hazards, such as part-time work and night work, conferred reduced risk of injury or illness. CONCLUSIONS Extended weekly work hours were not associated with occupational injury or illness. Future work should focus on transient exposures and agency-level characteristics that may contribute to adverse work events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Weaver
- Division of Sleep Medicine; Harvard Medical School; Boston Massachusetts
- Departments of Medicine and Neurology; Brigham and Women's Hospital; Boston Massachusetts
| | - P. Daniel Patterson
- Department of Emergency Medicine; Carolinas HealthCare System Medical Center; Charlotte North Carolina
| | - Anthony Fabio
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh; Graduate School of Public Health; Pittsburgh Pennsylvania
| | - Charity G. Moore
- Carolinas HealthCare System; Dickson Advance Analytics Group; Charlotte North Carolina
| | - Matthew S. Freiberg
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University; School of Medicine; Nashville Tennessee
| | - Thomas J. Songer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh; Graduate School of Public Health; Pittsburgh Pennsylvania
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Gawley T, Dixon S. One side of the story: Examining newspaper coverage of workplace injury and fatality in Ontario, 2007-2012. Work 2015; 53:205-18. [PMID: 26409383 DOI: 10.3233/wor-152140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND News coverage in popular media can shape public perspectives on occupational issues. Few studies exist concerning how occupational injury and fatality are represented in the news. OBJECTIVES This study examined how injuries, fatalities and worker characteristics were represented in newspapers compared with official government statistics. It also examined what individuals or organizations were most often included by reporters to provide interpretations of injuries and fatalities. METHODS Quantitative content analysis was used to examine 304 newspaper articles from between 2007 and 2012 representing the nine most populous cities in the province of Ontario, Canada. Government data came from reports compiled by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) of Ontario. RESULTS Compared to workers' compensation board records, physical characteristics of injuries and fatalities were skewed toward the acute traumatic. Women were dramatically underrepresented in newspaper articles. Age distributions were represented. Goods-producing, transportation and resource extraction occupations were overrepresented while services were underrepresented. Worker voices were largely absent in newspaper accounts compared with law enforcement, the State and management. CONCLUSIONS How workplace injury and fatality are framed, and who contributes to these frames, serves to shape public interpretations of occupational injury and fatality and how occupational health and safety issues might be addressed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Gawley
- Health Studies Program, Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, Brantford, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shane Dixon
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Weaver MD, Patterson PD, Fabio A, Moore CG, Freiberg MS, Songer TJ. An observational study of shift length, crew familiarity, and occupational injury and illness in emergency medical services workers. Occup Environ Med 2015; 72:798-804. [PMID: 26371071 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2015-102966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Emergency medical services (EMS) clinicians are shift workers deployed in two-person teams. Extended shift duration, workplace fatigue, poor sleep and lack of familiarity with teammates are common in the EMS workforce and may contribute to workplace injury. We sought to examine the relationship between shift length and occupational injury while controlling for relevant shift work and teamwork factors. METHODS We obtained 3 years of shift schedules and occupational injury and illness reports were from 14 large EMS agencies. We abstracted shift length and additional scheduling and team characteristics from shift schedules. We matched occupational injury and illness reports to shift records and used hierarchical logistic regression models to test the relationship between shift length and occupational injury and illness while controlling for teammate familiarity. RESULTS The cohort contained 966,082 shifts, 4382 employees and 950 outcome reports. Risk of occupational injury and illness was lower for shifts ≤8 h in duration (RR 0.70; 95% CI 0.51 to 0.96) compared with shifts >8 and ≤12 h. Relative to shifts >8 and ≤12 h, risk of injury was 60% greater (RR 1.60; 95% CI 1.22 to 2.10) for employees that worked shifts >16 and ≤24 h. CONCLUSIONS Shift length is associated with increased risk of occupational injury and illness in this sample of EMS shift workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Weaver
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA Division of Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - P Daniel Patterson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Carolinas HealthCare System Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Fabio
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Charity G Moore
- Dickson Advance Analytics Group, Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew S Freiberg
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Thomas J Songer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Turner N, Tucker S, Kelloway EK. Prevalence and demographic differences in microaccidents and safety behaviors among young workers in Canada. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2015; 53:39-43. [PMID: 25933996 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Revised: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The present study examines the self-reported frequency of non-lost work time workplace injuries ("microaccidents") and the frequency of three types of work-related safety behaviors (i.e., safety voice, safety compliance, and safety neglect) recalled over a four-week period. METHOD We analyzed data on microaccidents and safety behaviors from 19,547 young workers (aged 15-25years, Mdn=18years; 55% male) from multiple Canadian provinces. RESULTS Approximately one-third of all young workers recalled experiencing at least one microaccident at work in the last four weeks. Comparisons across three age groups revealed that younger workers, particularly between the ages of 15-18, reported more frequent microaccidents, less safety voice, less safety compliance, and more safety neglect than workers aged 19-22. This pattern of results also held for comparisons between workers in 19-22 and 23-25 age groups, except for safety voice which did not differ between these two older age groups. In terms of gender, males and females reported the same frequency of microaccidents, but males reported more safety voice, more safety compliance, and more safety neglect than females did. The results and limitations of the present study are discussed. CONCLUSION Frequency of microaccidents and safety behavior vary among young worker age sub-groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Turner
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Sean Tucker
- Faculty of Business Administration, University of Regina, Canada.
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Turner N, Hershcovis MS, Reich TC, Totterdell P. Work-family interference, psychological distress, and workplace injuries. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/joop.12071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nick Turner
- Asper School of Business; University of Manitoba; Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
| | | | - Tara C. Reich
- Department of Management; London School of Economics; UK
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