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Shahidi FV, Tracey M, Gignac MAM, Oudyk J, Smith PM. Unpaid overtime and mental health in the Canadian working population. Am J Ind Med 2024; 67:741-752. [PMID: 38849975 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23622] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unpaid overtime-describing a situation where extra hours are worked but not paid for-is a common feature of the labor market that, together with other forms of wage theft, costs workers billions of dollars annually. In this study, we examine the association between unpaid overtime and mental health in the Canadian working population. We also assess the relative strength of that association by comparing it against those of other broadly recognized work stressors. METHODS Data were drawn from a survey administered to a heterogeneous sample of workers in Canada (n = 3691). Generalized linear models quantified associations between unpaid overtime, stress, and burnout, distinguishing between moderate (1-5) and excessive (6 or more) hours of unpaid overtime. RESULTS Unpaid overtime was associated with higher levels of stress and burnout. Relative to those working no unpaid overtime, men working excessive unpaid overtime were 85% more likely to report stress (prevalence ratios [PR]: 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26-2.72) and 84% more likely to report burnout (PR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.34-2.54), while women working excessive unpaid overtime were 90% more likely to report stress (PR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.32-2.75) and 52% more likely to report burnout (PR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.12-2.06). The association of excessive unpaid overtime with mental health was comparable in magnitude to that of shift work and low job control. CONCLUSIONS Unpaid overtime may present a significant challenge to the mental health of working people, highlighting the potential role of wage theft as a neglected occupational health hazard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraz Vahid Shahidi
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew Tracey
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Monique A M Gignac
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John Oudyk
- Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter M Smith
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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LaMontagne AD, Åberg M, Blomqvist S, Glozier N, Greiner BA, Gullestrup J, Harvey SB, Kyron MJ, Madsen IEH, Hanson LM, Maheen H, Mustard C, Niedhammer I, Rugulies R, Smith PM, Taouk Y, Waters S, Witt K, King TL. Work-related suicide: Evolving understandings of etiology & intervention. Am J Ind Med 2024; 67:679-695. [PMID: 38853462 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23624] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Previously published analyses of suicide case investigations suggest that work or working conditions contribute to 10%-13% of suicide deaths. Yet, the way in which work may increase suicide risk is an underdeveloped area of epidemiologic research. In this Commentary, we propose a definition of work-related suicide from an occupational health and safety perspective, and review the case investigation-based and epidemiologic evidence on work-related causes of suicide. We identified six broad categories of potential work-related causes of suicide, which are: (1) workplace chemical, physical, and psychosocial exposures; (2) exposure to trauma on the job; (3) access to means of suicide through work; (4) exposure to high-stigma work environments; (5) exposure to normative environments promoting extreme orientation to work; and (6) adverse experiences arising from work-related injury or illness. We summarise current evidence in a schema of potential work-related causes that can also be applied in workplace risk assessment and suicide case investigations. There are numerous implications of these findings for policy and practice. Various principle- and evidence-based workplace intervention strategies for suicide prevention exist, some of which have been shown to improve suicide-prevention literacy, reduce stigma, enhance helping behaviours, and in some instances maybe even reduce suicide rates. Prevailing practice in workplace suicide prevention, however, overly emphasises individual- and illness-directed interventions, with little attention directed to addressing the working conditions that may increase suicide risk. We conclude that a stronger emphasis on improving working conditions will be required for workplace suicide prevention to reach its full preventive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D LaMontagne
- Institute for Health Transformation & School of Health & Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Åberg
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sandra Blomqvist
- Department of Psychology, Stress Research Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nick Glozier
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Jorgen Gullestrup
- Institute for Health Transformation & School of Health & Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samuel B Harvey
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael J Kyron
- Suicide Prevention and Resilience Research Center (SPARRC), School of Psychological Science, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ida E H Madsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- National Institute of Public Health, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Linda Magnusson Hanson
- Department of Psychology, Stress Research Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Humaira Maheen
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Isabelle Niedhammer
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Univ Angers, Angers, France
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Section of Epidemiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter M Smith
- Instutute for Work & Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yamna Taouk
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Waters
- School of Languages, Cultures and Societies, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Katrina Witt
- Orygen Centre for Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tania L King
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Bouwens L, van Zon SKR, Peijen R, Vooijs M. Vulnerability profiles of workers and the relation with burnout symptoms: results from the Netherlands working conditions survey. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2024; 97:651-660. [PMID: 38797814 PMCID: PMC11245419 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-024-02071-1] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Unfavorable working conditions may place workers in a vulnerable position in the labour market, but studies on the clustering of these factors and their relation to burnout symptoms are lacking. This study aims to identify subgroups of workers in potentially vulnerable positions in the labour market and examine whether burnout symptoms differ across the established subgroups. METHODS This study utilizes cross-sectional data from 2019 of the Netherlands Working Conditions Survey (n = 55,283). Working conditions included employment contracts, working hours, multiple jobs, tenure, physical strain, autonomy, and workload. Burnout symptoms were measured with five items on a 7-point Likert scale. Latent Class Analysis was used to identify vulnerability subgroups based on working conditions and educational level. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to examine whether burnout symptoms differed between the identified subgroups. RESULTS Three out of nine subgroups (i.e., classes 4, 6, and 7) presented combinations of multiple unfavourable working conditions. The vulnerability of class 4, characterized by low educational level, physically demanding work, low autonomy, and a high workload, was underscored by a significantly higher burnout symptom score (M = 2.91;SD = 0.97) compared to all other subgroups. Subgroups 3 (M = 2.69;SD = 1.43) and 8 (M = 2.41;SD = 1.41), without striking unfavourable conditions, had the second and third highest scores on burnout symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Determining vulnerability in the labour market is not straightforward as not all profiles that presented clusters of unfavourable working conditions scored high on burnout symptoms, and vice versa. Future research should investigate whether findings are similar to other mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luuk Bouwens
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Public and Occupational Health, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- TNO Unit Healthy Living & Work, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, Sylviusweg 71, Leiden, 2333 BE, The Netherlands.
| | - Sander K R van Zon
- TNO Unit Healthy Living & Work, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, Sylviusweg 71, Leiden, 2333 BE, The Netherlands
- Department of Health Sciences, Community and Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roy Peijen
- TNO Unit Healthy Living & Work, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, Sylviusweg 71, Leiden, 2333 BE, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes Vooijs
- TNO Unit Healthy Living & Work, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, Sylviusweg 71, Leiden, 2333 BE, The Netherlands
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Knutsen RH, Nielsen MB, Lunde LK, Skare Ø, Johannessen HA. Impact of psychosocial work factors on risk of medically certified sick leave due to common mental disorders: a nationwide prospective cohort study of Norwegian home care workers. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:773. [PMID: 38475747 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18299-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Norwegian home care services experience a high level of sick leave, a large proportion of which is due to common mental disorders. A substantial number of such cases can be attributed to psychosocial factors at work, but more knowledge about occupation-specific risk factors is needed to develop targeted preventive measures to reduce sick leave levels. The aim of this study is to identify the most prominent psychosocial work factors influencing the risk of sick leave spells due to common mental disorders. METHODS Employees from a random sample of 130 Norwegian home care services (N = 1.819) completed a baseline survey on 15 psychosocial work factors. Participants were subsequently followed up for 26 months using registry data on sick leave. The outcome measure was the number of medically certified sick leave spells due to common mental disorders during follow-up in the Norwegian social insurance database. Incidence risk ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using negative binomial regression with robust standard errors. RESULTS Emotional dissonance (IRR 1.30, 95% CI 1.05-1.60) and emotional demands (IRR 1.35, 95% CI 1.14-1.58) were associated with an excess risk of sick leave, while control over work pacing (IRR 0.78, 95% CI 0.62-0.98) was associated with a reduced risk. An estimated 30% (95% CI 8.73-48.82) of sick leave cases were attributable to emotional dissonance and 27% (95% CI 4.80-46.33) were attributable to emotional demands. Control over work pacing was estimated to have prevented 20% (95% CI 1.32-37.78) of the sick leave cases. CONCLUSIONS This study found that emotional dissonance and emotional demands were robust risk factors for sick leave due to common mental disorders, and that control of work pacing constituted a robust protective factor against sick leave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rigmor Harang Knutsen
- Research Group for Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute for Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Morten Birkeland Nielsen
- Research Group for Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute for Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars-Kristian Lunde
- Research Group for Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute for Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øivind Skare
- Research Group for Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology, National Institute for Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Håkon A Johannessen
- Research Group for Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute for Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
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Mbare B. Psychosocial work environment and mental wellbeing of food delivery platform workers in Helsinki, Finland: A qualitative study. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2023; 18:2173336. [PMID: 36730307 PMCID: PMC9897739 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2173336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Food delivery platform work is a relatively new phenomenon in Finland and has not been studied widely hence limited knowledge on its work environment. The aim of this study was to explore and understand its psychosocial work environment in the Helsinki region and how it relates to the mental wellbeing of its couriers. METHODS The study draws its findings from 20 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with food delivery platform workers in Helsinki. Data were approached through thematic analysis where the six phases of thematic analysis were meticulously followed. RESULTS Food delivery platform work provided couriers with income and labour market opportunities. However, its work environment was psychosocially burdening, which posed detrimental challenges to the mental wellbeing of its couriers. CONCLUSION Study findings indicated that food delivery platform workers worked in an onerous work environment, which accentuated their occupational mental health. Thus, this study recommends future longitudinal research that would examine the association between food delivery platform work and mental health of couriers working through such platforms. Also, interventions and policies that aim at improving its psychosocial work environment are required for a more decent and healthier work environment that enhances mental health and wellbeing of its couriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benta Mbare
- Doctoral researcher, in the doctoral programme in Health Sciences at Tampere University, Tampere, Finland,CONTACT Benta Mbare Doctoral programme in Health Sciences, Tampere University, Finland
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Kinitz DJ, Shahidi FV, Ross LE. Job quality and precarious employment among lesbian, gay, and bisexual workers: A national study. SSM Popul Health 2023; 24:101535. [PMID: 38021458 PMCID: PMC10661442 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101535] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Employment outcomes among sexual minority (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual) workers are poorly understood, and previous research on this topic has focused almost exclusively on inequities in earnings, neglecting other important dimensions of job quality. We address this gap by describing and comparing the job quality of straight and sexual minority workers in Canada. Methods Data are from the 2016 General Social Survey: Canadians at Work and Home, the only national survey providing both a measure of sexual orientation and a multidimensional view of job quality in Canada. We identified 25 unique job quality indicators (e.g., temporary employment; job insecurity; health benefits; low income; job satisfaction; job control; discrimination). Latent class cluster analysis was used to establish a typology of job quality describing standard, flexible, and precarious employment types. We used multivariable regression methods to examine the association between sexual orientation and job quality. Results Sexual minorities reported lower job quality than their straight counterparts along many dimensions, with bisexual people reporting the lowest job quality. While inequities were generally observed among both sexual minority men and women, they sometimes differed in magnitude by gender. The prevalence of precarious employment was nearly three times higher among lesbian, gay, and bisexual workers (PR: 2.94, CI: 1.89-4.58 among all sexual minorities; PR: 3.04, CI: 1.71-5.43 among gay/lesbian workers; and PR: 2.81, CI: 1.45-5.47 among bisexual workers) compared to their straight counterparts. Conclusion Inequities in job quality among sexual minorities persist despite comprehensive human rights protections in Canada. These inequities are pervasive, extending well beyond conventional indicators such as dollars earned and hours worked. Multi-pronged interventions are needed that move beyond simply ensuring that sexual minority workers are employed. Sexual minority workers deserve access to secure, well-paid work with benefits where they can foster connection and be free from discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Kinitz
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Room 500, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Faraz Vahid Shahidi
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Room 500, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Avenue, Suite 1800, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1S5, Canada
| | - Lori E Ross
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Room 500, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada
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van Veen M, Schelvis RM, Hoekstra T, Bongers PM, Boot CR, Oude Hengel KM. Work characteristics and emotional exhaustion among young workers: a latent class analysis. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e074386. [PMID: 37852771 PMCID: PMC10603524 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to assess the heterogeneity of psychosocial working conditions of young workers by identifying subgroups of work characteristic configurations within young workers and to assess these subgroups' associations with emotional exhaustion. DESIGN Latent class analysis. Groups were formed based on 12 work characteristics (8 job demands and 4 job resources), educational level and sex. Differences in emotional exhaustion between subgroups were analysed using analysis of variance and post hoc comparisons. SETTING Data from the 2019 wave of the Netherlands Working Conditions Survey. PARTICIPANTS 7301 individuals between the age of 18 and 30 years, who worked more than 16 hours per week. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Emotional exhaustion. RESULTS Five subgroups of work characteristics could be identified and were labelled as: (1) 'low-complexity work' (24.4%), (2) 'office work' (32.3%), (3) 'manual and non-interpersonal work' (12.4%), (4) 'non-manual and interpersonal work' (21.0%), and (5) 'manual and interpersonal work' (9.9%). Mean scores for emotional exhaustion in the two interpersonal work groups (M=3.11, SD=1.4; M=3.45, SD=1.6) were significantly higher than in the first three groups (M=2.05, SD=1.1; M=1.98, SD=1.0; M=2.05, SD=1.1) (all 95% CIs excluding 0). Further, mean scores for emotional exhaustion were significantly higher in the 'manual and interpersonal work' group than in the 'non-manual and interpersonal work' group (95% CI 0.24, 0.45). All results could be replicated in the 2017 and 2021 waves of the Netherlands Working Conditions Survey. CONCLUSIONS Young workers reported heterogeneous work characteristic configurations with substantial differences in degrees of emotional exhaustion between the identified subgroups. Preventing emotional exhaustion should focus on the two interpersonal work subgroups, which showed a high degree of emotional exhaustion. In prevention efforts, these groups' configurations of work characteristics should be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malte van Veen
- Amsterdam Public Health, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Unit Healthy Living & Work, TNO Location Leiden Sylviusweg, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Body@Work, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Roosmarijn Mc Schelvis
- Amsterdam Public Health, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Body@Work, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Trynke Hoekstra
- Department of Health Sciences and Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Faculty of Science, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paulien M Bongers
- Unit Healthy Living & Work, TNO Location Leiden Sylviusweg, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Body@Work, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cécile Rl Boot
- Amsterdam Public Health, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Body@Work, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karen M Oude Hengel
- Unit Healthy Living & Work, TNO Location Leiden Sylviusweg, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Body@Work, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Nizzer S, Ruco A, Moreira NA, Holness DL, Nichol KA, King EC, McKay SM. "You Have to Be Careful About Every Detail" How the COVID-19 Pandemic Shaped the Experiences of Canadian Personal Support Workers Working in Home Care. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:e604-e609. [PMID: 37365749 PMCID: PMC10487389 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002911] [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] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Personal support workers (PSWs) are an essential but vulnerable workforce supporting the home care sector in Canada. Given the impact COVID-19 has had on healthcare workers globally, understanding how PSWs have been impacted is vital. METHODS We conducted a qualitative descriptive study to understand the working experiences of PSWs over the COVID-19 pandemic. Nineteen semistructured interviews were conducted, and analysis was guided by the collaborative DEPICT framework. RESULTS Personal support workers are motivated by an intrinsic duty to work and their longstanding client relationships despite feeling vulnerable to transmission and infection. They experienced co-occurring occupational stressors and worsening work conditions, which impacted their overall well-being. CONCLUSIONS Pandemic conditions have contributed to increased occupational stress among PSWs. Employers must implement proactive strategies that promote and protect the well-being of their workforce while advocating for sector improvements.
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Oakman J, Macdonald WA, McCredie K. Psychosocial hazards play a key role in differentiating MSD risk levels of workers in high-risk occupations. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2023; 112:104053. [PMID: 37270872 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2023.104053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Workplace management practices targeting risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) fail to reflect evidence that risk is affected by psychosocial as well as physical hazards. To promote improved practices in occupations where MSD risk is highest, better information is needed on how psychosocial hazards, combined with physical hazards, affect risk of workers in these occupations. METHODS Survey ratings of physical and psychosocial hazards by 2329 Australian workers in occupations with high MSD risk were subjected to Principal Components Analysis. Latent Profile Analysis of hazard factor scores identified different combinations of hazards to which latent subgroups of workers were typically exposed. Survey ratings of frequency and severity of musculoskeletal discomfort or pain (MSP) generated a pre-validated MSP score and its relationship with subgroup membership was analysed. Demographic variables associated with group membership were investigated using regression modelling and descriptive statistics. RESULTS Analyses identified three physical and seven psychosocial hazard factors and three participant subgroups with differing hazard profiles. Profile group differences were greater for psychosocial than physical hazards, and MSP scores out of 60 ranged from 6.7 for the low hazard profile (29% of participants) to 17.5 for the high hazard profile (21%). Differences between occupations in hazard profiles were not large. CONCLUSIONS Both physical and psychosocial hazards affect MSD risk of workers in high-risk occupations. In workplaces such as this large Australian sample where risk management has focused on physical hazards, actions targeting psychosocial hazards may now be the most effective way to reduce risk further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Oakman
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, 3086, Australia.
| | - Wendy A Macdonald
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, 3086, Australia
| | - Kate McCredie
- Centre for Ergonomics and Human Factors, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, 3086, Australia
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Lemke MK, Hege A, Crizzle AM. An Agenda for Advancing Research and Prevention at the Nexus of Work Organization, Occupational Stress, and Mental Health and Well-Being. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6010. [PMID: 37297614 PMCID: PMC10252625 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20116010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Work characteristics and worker well-being are inextricably connected. In particular, the characteristics of work organization shape and perpetuate occupational stress, which contributes to worker mental health and well-being outcomes. Consequently, the importance of understanding and addressing connections between work organization, occupational stress, and mental health and well-being-the focus of this Special Issue-increasingly demand attention from those affected by these issues. Thus, focusing on these issues in the long-haul truck driver (LHTD) sector as an illustrative example, the purpose of this commentary is as follows: (1) to outline current research approaches and the extant knowledge base regarding the connections between work organization, occupational stress, and mental health; (2) to provide an overview of current intervention strategies and public policy solutions associated with the current knowledge base to protect and promote worker mental health and well-being; and (3) to propose a two-pronged agenda for advancing research and prevention for workers during the 21st century. It is anticipated that this commentary, and this Special Issue more broadly, will both echo numerous other calls for building knowledge and engaging in this area and motivate further research within complementary current and novel research frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K. Lemke
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Houston-Downtown, Houston, TX 77002, USA
| | - Adam Hege
- Department of Public Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC 28608, USA;
| | - Alexander M. Crizzle
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada;
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de Visser M, de Graaf-Zijl M, Anema JR, Huysmans MA. Work and health during the COVID-19 crisis among Dutch workers and jobseekers with (partial) work disabilities: a mixed methods study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:966. [PMID: 37237345 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15720-w] [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: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The consequences of restrictive measures during the COVID-19 outbreak have potentially been enormous, especially for those in a vulnerable position in the labour market. This study aims to describe the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on work status, working conditions and health among people with (partial) work disabilities-with and in search of work-during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Netherlands. METHODS A mixed methods design was used, combining a cross-sectional online survey and ten semi-structured interviews with people with a (partial) work disability. The quantitative data included responses to job-related questions, self-reported health, and demographics. The qualitative data consisted of participants' perceptions about work, vocational rehabilitation, and health. We used descriptive statistics to summarize the responses, conducted logistic and linear regression and integrated our qualitative findings with the quantitative findings, aiming at complementarity. RESULTS Five hundred and eighty-four participants (response rate 30.2%) completed the online survey. The majority of participants experienced no change in work status: 39 percent remained employed, 45 percent remained unemployed, six percent of respondents lost their job, and ten percent became employed during the COVID-19 crisis. In general, the results showed a deterioration in self-rated health during the COVID-19 outbreak, both for participants at work and in search of work. Participants who lost their job during the COVID-19 crisis reported the highest deterioration in self-rated health. Interview findings revealed that loneliness and social isolation were persistent during the COVID-19 crisis, especially among those in search of work. Additionally, employed participants identified a safe work environment and the possibility to work at the office as important factors for overall health. CONCLUSIONS The vast majority of study participants (84.2%) experienced no change in work status during the COVID-19 crisis. Nonetheless, people at work and in search of work encountered barriers to maintaining or (re)gaining employment. People with a (partial) work disability who lost their job during the crisis appeared to be most affected in terms of health. Employment and health protections could be strengthened for persons with (partial) work disabilities in order to build resilience in times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara de Visser
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Public and Occupational Health, Van Der Boechorstraat 7 1081 BT, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Marloes de Graaf-Zijl
- UWV (Social Security Institute), Kenniscentrum, La Guardiaweg 94-114, 1043 DL, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes R Anema
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Public and Occupational Health, Van Der Boechorstraat 7 1081 BT, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike A Huysmans
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Public and Occupational Health, Van Der Boechorstraat 7 1081 BT, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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12
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Wright E, Chen JT, Beckfield J, Theodore N, Krieger N. Workplace hazards and health among informally employed domestic workers in 14 cities, United States, 2011-2012: Using four approaches to characterize workers' patterns of exposures. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:959-974. [PMID: 36222491 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23433] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We characterized informally employed US domestic workers' (DWers) exposure to patterns of workplace hazards, as well as to single hazards, and examined associations with DWers' work-related and general health. METHODS We analyzed cross-sectional data from the sole nationwide survey of informally employed US DWers with work-related hazards data, conducted in 14 cities (2011-2012; N = 2086). We characterized DWers' exposures using four approaches: single exposures (n = 19 hazards), composite exposure to hazards selected a priori, classification trees, and latent class analysis. We used city fixed effects regression to estimate the risk ratio (RR) of work-related back injury, work-related illness, and fair-to-poor self-rated health associated with exposure as defined by each approach. RESULTS Across all four approaches-net of individual, household, and occupational characteristics, and city fixed effects-exposure to workplace hazards was associated with increased risk of the three health outcomes. For work-related back injury, the estimated RR associated with heavy lifting (the single hazard with the largest RR), exposure to all three hazards selected a priori (worker did heavy lifting, climbed to clean, and worked long hours) versus none, exposure to the two hazards identified by classification trees (heavy lifting, verbally abused) versus "no heavy lifting," and membership in the most- versus least-exposed latent class were, respectively, 3.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.7-4.1); 6.5 (95% CI 4.8-8.7); 4.4 (95% CI 3.6-5.3), and 6.6 (95% CI 4.6-9.4). CONCLUSIONS Measures of joint work-related exposures were more strongly associated than single exposures with informally employed US DWers' health profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Wright
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jarvis T Chen
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jason Beckfield
- Department of Sociology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nik Theodore
- Department of Urban Planning and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nancy Krieger
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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Smith P, Oudyk J, Cedillo L, Inouye K, Potter G, Mustard C. The psychosocial work environment among educators during the COVID-19 pandemic. Occup Med (Lond) 2022; 72:439-445. [PMID: 35657324 PMCID: PMC9214098 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqac050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The education sector has been heavily impacted by COVID-19. While the impact on school-aged children has received much attention, less attention has focused on the experiences of educators. AIMS To compare various dimensions of the psychosocial work environment and health outcomes between educators engaged in online learning to those engaged in in-person learning in the Canadian province of Ontario. METHODS Responses from 5438 educators engaged in either online or in-person learning were collected between 23 November and 21 December 2020; three months after the start of the 2020/21 academic year in September 2020. Psychosocial outcomes included quantitative demands, work pace, predictability, role conflicts, and social support from supervisors and co-workers; assessed using an abbreviated version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included burnout and sleep troubles. Ordinary Least-Squares regression models examined adjusted mean differences in the levels of outcomes for respondents in in-person versus online learning, after adjustment for a variety of covariates. RESULTS Compared to respondents engaged in in-person learning, respondents engaged in online learning reported less predictability, higher role conflicts and less support from supervisors and co-workers. Statistically significant differences in work pace, burnout and sleep troubles were also observed across learning modes, although these differences did not exceed previously suggested thresholds for minimum important differences. CONCLUSIONS Important differences in the psychosocial work environment were observed between respondents engaged in in-person learning versus online learning. Addressing these differences is required, given the potential continued importance of online learning within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Smith
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Australia
| | - J Oudyk
- Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Ontario, Canada
| | - L Cedillo
- Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - K Inouye
- Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations, Toronto, Canada
| | - G Potter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, North Carolina, USA
| | - C Mustard
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Niks IMW, Veldhuis GA, van Zwieten MHJ, Sluijs T, Wiezer NM, Wortelboer HM. Individual Workplace Well-Being Captured into a Literature- and Stakeholders-Based Causal Loop Diagram. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19158925. [PMID: 35897299 PMCID: PMC9331132 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19158925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This study demonstrates an innovative approach to capture the complexity of individual workplace well-being, improving our understanding of multicausal relationships and feedback loops involved. The literature shows that a high number of interacting factors are related to individual workplace well-being. However, many studies focus on subsets of factors, and causal loops are seldomly studied. The aim of the current study was, therefore, to capture individual workplace well-being in a comprehensive conceptual causal loop diagram (CLD). We followed an iterative, qualitative, and transdisciplinary systems-thinking approach including literature search, group model building sessions, retrospective in-depth interviews with employees, and group sessions with human resource professionals, managers, job coaches, and management consultants. The results were discussed with HR and well-being officers of twelve organizations for their critical reflection on the recognizability and potential of the developed CLD. The final result, a conceptual individual workplace well-being CLD, provides a comprehensive overview of multiple, measurable key factors relating to individual workplace well-being and of the way these factors may causally interact over time, either improving or deteriorating workplace well-being. In future studies, the CLD can be translated to a quantitative system dynamics model for simulating workplace well-being scenarios. Ultimately, these simulations could be used to design effective workplace well-being interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene M. W. Niks
- Department Work, Health & Technology, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 2301 DA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.H.J.v.Z.); (N.M.W.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Guido A. Veldhuis
- Department Defense, Safety & Security, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 2509 JG The Hague, The Netherlands;
| | - Marianne H. J. van Zwieten
- Department Work, Health & Technology, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 2301 DA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.H.J.v.Z.); (N.M.W.)
| | - Teun Sluijs
- Department Microbiology and Systems Biology, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3700 AJ Zeist, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (H.M.W.)
| | - Noortje M. Wiezer
- Department Work, Health & Technology, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 2301 DA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.H.J.v.Z.); (N.M.W.)
| | - Heleen M. Wortelboer
- Department Microbiology and Systems Biology, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3700 AJ Zeist, The Netherlands; (T.S.); (H.M.W.)
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15
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Shahidi FV, Smith PM, Oudyk J, Gignac MAM. Longitudinal Reciprocal Relationships Between the Psychosocial Work Environment and Burnout. J Occup Environ Med 2022; 64:226-235. [PMID: 35244087 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine longitudinal reciprocal relationships between the psychosocial work environment and burnout. METHODS We used two-wave cross-lagged panel models to estimate associations between a wide range of psychosocial work factors (ie, job demands, job control, job insecurity, coworker support, supervisor support, and organizational justice) and burnout in a broadly representative sample of the general working population in Canada (n = 453). RESULTS Bidirectional associations between the psychosocial work environment and burnout were observed. Results supported the causal predominance of psychosocial work factors over burnout. Higher job demands, lower job control, higher job insecurity, and lower organizational justice predicted burnout over time. Burnout only predicted lower supervisor support over time. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that stress at work is better understood as a cause rather than a consequence of burnout in the general working population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraz Vahid Shahidi
- Institute for Work & Health (Dr Shahidi, Dr Smith, Dr Gignac); Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto (Dr Shahidi, Dr Smith, Dr Gignac), Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Australia (Dr Smith); Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers, Hamilton (Mr Oudyk), Ontario, Canada
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Torres-Martín C, Alemany-Arrebola I, Lorenzo-Martín ME, Mingorance-Estrada ÁC. Psychological Distress and Psychosocial Factors in the Non-Formal Context of Basketball Coaches in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:8722. [PMID: 34444468 PMCID: PMC8393407 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Psychological distress and psychosocial factors are studied in the sports context in players of various specialties, but are only little studied with coaches who carry out their work with these athletes; that is where we put the emphasis, trying to determine the perception of coaches on psychological distress and psychosocial risk factors that may influence their sports work in times of a pandemic. It is an ex post facto study with a single-group retrospective design, with a representative sample of 94 coaches out of a possible 109. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale and the short version of the ISTAS21 Psychosocial Risk Assessment at Work Questionnaire were adapted to the sports context. The results show that the youngest, those with the least experience and level 1 and level 2 coaches show the highest levels of stress. According to the psychosocial risk assessment, level 1 and 2 coaches, with experience between 6 to 10 years, are in the risk zone. Therefore, it is important to work with a group of coaches who are in the psychosocial risk zone and with high levels of psychological discomfort in order to avoid mental, emotional and physical stress, for the good performance of their work in the best possible conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Torres-Martín
- Department of Didactics and School Organization, Faculty of Education Sciences, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain;
| | - Inmaculada Alemany-Arrebola
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Education, Faculty of Education and Sports Sciences, University of Granada, 52005 Melilla, Spain
| | | | - Ángel Custodio Mingorance-Estrada
- Department of Didactics and School Organization, Faculty of Education and Sports Sciences, University of Granada, 52005 Melilla, Spain;
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