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Tjøsvoll SO, Steiro Fimland M, Gonzalez V, Seeberg TM, Holtermann A, Færevik H, Wiggen Ø. Physical Work Demands of Maintenance Workers on Onshore Petroleum Facilities in Norway: An Observational Study Utilizing Wearable Sensor Technology. Ann Work Expo Health 2023; 67:706-719. [PMID: 37171985 PMCID: PMC10324642 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxad022] [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: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES High physical work demands can cause musculoskeletal disorders and sick leave in petroleum workers. However, our knowledge of their physical work demands is scarce and based on self-report. The objective of our study is to work towards closing this knowledge gap by assessing the physical work demands of onshore petroleum maintenance workers using body-worn sensors. METHODS A total of 46 of 69 eligible maintenance workers (37 mechanics and 9 process technicians) from three onshore petroleum facilities in Norway filled in a questionnaire and diary and wore five accelerometers and a heart rate sensor for up to six consecutive workdays. Work-related physical activity and postures were classified using rule-based modelling in a modified version of the validated Acti4 software. RESULTS The onshore maintenance petroleum workers were working an average of 10 h a day and spent on average this time with 48% (SD = 16.5) sitting, 1% (SD = 2.8) lying down, 39% (SD = 16.2) in light physical activity, and 9% (SD = 3.8) in moderate to vigorous physical activity. During work hours while at feet, we found arm elevation ≥60° to be 11% (SD = 7.1) (68 min), and forward bending of the trunk ≥60° to be 2% (SD = 2.2) (14 min). The workers spent 2% (SD = 2.5) (12 minu) of the workhours kneeling. We observed a high inter-individual variation for all these work exposures. Moreover, 26% (12) of the workers conducted static standing for >30% of the workday, and 17% (8) spent more than half of the work hours >33% of their estimated maximal cardiovascular capacity. CONCLUSIONS While onshore maintenance petroleum workers on average spend about half of the workday sitting or lying down, the remaining worktime is spent with a rather high duration of arm elevation and forward bending. Quite high fraction of the workers spends much of the workhours in static standing and kneeling. We see a substantial variation in these work exposures between the workers. The findings indicate a need for preventive measures in how work is organized and performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svein O Tjøsvoll
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Edvard Griegs gate 8, Trondheim N-7491, Norway
| | - Marius Steiro Fimland
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Edvard Griegs gate 8, Trondheim N-7491, Norway
- Unicare Helsefort Rehabilitation Centre, Rissa, Hysnesveien 11, 7112 Hasselvika, Norway
| | - Victor Gonzalez
- Department of Smart Sensor and Microsystems, SINTEF Digital, SINTEF AS, Dept. of Health Research, P.O. Box 124 Blindern, NO-0314 Oslo, Norway
| | - Trine M Seeberg
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Edvard Griegs gate 8, Trondheim N-7491, Norway
- Department of Smart Sensor and Microsystems, SINTEF Digital, SINTEF AS, Dept. of Health Research, P.O. Box 124 Blindern, NO-0314 Oslo, Norway
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hilde Færevik
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, SINTEF AS, P.O. Box 4760 Torgaarden, NO-7465 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Øystein Wiggen
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, SINTEF AS, P.O. Box 4760 Torgaarden, NO-7465 Trondheim, Norway
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Lind CM, Abtahi F, Forsman M. Wearable Motion Capture Devices for the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Ergonomics-An Overview of Current Applications, Challenges, and Future Opportunities. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23094259. [PMID: 37177463 PMCID: PMC10181376 DOI: 10.3390/s23094259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a major contributor to disability worldwide and substantial societal costs. The use of wearable motion capture instruments has a role in preventing WMSDs by contributing to improvements in exposure and risk assessment and potentially improved effectiveness in work technique training. Given the versatile potential for wearables, this article aims to provide an overview of their application related to the prevention of WMSDs of the trunk and upper limbs and discusses challenges for the technology to support prevention measures and future opportunities, including future research needs. The relevant literature was identified from a screening of recent systematic literature reviews and overviews, and more recent studies were identified by a literature search using the Web of Science platform. Wearable technology enables continuous measurements of multiple body segments of superior accuracy and precision compared to observational tools. The technology also enables real-time visualization of exposures, automatic analyses, and real-time feedback to the user. While miniaturization and improved usability and wearability can expand the use also to more occupational settings and increase use among occupational safety and health practitioners, several fundamental challenges remain to be resolved. The future opportunities of increased usage of wearable motion capture devices for the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders may require more international collaborations for creating common standards for measurements, analyses, and exposure metrics, which can be related to epidemiologically based risk categories for work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl Mikael Lind
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Farhad Abtahi
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Mikael Forsman
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden
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Hoareau D, Fan X, Abtahi F, Yang L. Evaluation of In-Cloth versus On-Skin Sensors for Measuring Trunk and Upper Arm Postures and Movements. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:3969. [PMID: 37112309 PMCID: PMC10142577 DOI: 10.3390/s23083969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Smart workwear systems with embedded inertial measurement unit sensors are developed for convenient ergonomic risk assessment of occupational activities. However, its measurement accuracy can be affected by potential cloth artifacts, which have not been previously assessed. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the accuracy of sensors placed in the workwear systems for research and practice purposes. This study aimed to compare in-cloth and on-skin sensors for assessing upper arms and trunk postures and movements, with the on-skin sensors as the reference. Five simulated work tasks were performed by twelve subjects (seven women and five men). Results showed that the mean (±SD) absolute cloth-skin sensor differences of the median dominant arm elevation angle ranged between 1.2° (±1.4) and 4.1° (±3.5). For the median trunk flexion angle, the mean absolute cloth-skin sensor differences ranged between 2.7° (±1.7) and 3.7° (±3.9). Larger errors were observed for the 90th and 95th percentiles of inclination angles and inclination velocities. The performance depended on the tasks and was affected by individual factors, such as the fit of the clothes. Potential error compensation algorithms need to be investigated in future work. In conclusion, in-cloth sensors showed acceptable accuracy for measuring upper arm and trunk postures and movements on a group level. Considering the balance of accuracy, comfort, and usability, such a system can potentially be a practical tool for ergonomic assessment for researchers and practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Hoareau
- Department of Mechatronics, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, 35170 Bruz, France
- Laboratoire SATIE, CNRS UMR 8029, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, 35170 Bruz, France
| | - Xuelong Fan
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 4, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Farhad Abtahi
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Hälsovägen 11C, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Liyun Yang
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 4, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Ergonomics, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Hälsovägen 11C, SE-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
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Gupta N, Bjerregaard SS, Yang L, Forsman M, Rasmussen CL, Nørregaard Rasmussen CD, Clays E, Holtermann A. Does occupational forward bending of the back increase long-term sickness absence risk? A 4-year prospective register-based study using device-measured compositional data analysis. Scand J Work Environ Health 2022; 48:651-661. [PMID: 35894796 PMCID: PMC10546616 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.4047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Forward bending of the back is common in many jobs and a risk factor for sickness absence. However, this knowledge is based on self-reported forward bending that is generally imprecise. Thus, we aimed to investigate the dose-response relation between device-measured forward bending at work and prospective register-based risk of long-term sickness absence (LTSA). METHODS At baseline, 944 workers (93% from blue-collar jobs) wore accelerometers on their upper back and thigh over 1-6 workdays to measure worktime with forward bending (>30˚ and >60˚) and body positions. The first event of LTSA (≥6 consecutive weeks) over a 4-year follow-up were retrieved from a national register. Compositional Cox proportional hazard analyses were used to model the association between worktime with forward bending of the back in an upright body position and LTSA adjusted for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), occupational lifting/carrying, type of work, and, in an additional step, for leisure time physical activity (PA) on workdays. RESULTS During a mean worktime of 457 minutes/day, the workers on average spent 40 and 10 minutes on forward bending >30˚ and >60˚ in the upright position, respectively. Five more minutes forward bending >30˚ and >60˚ at work were associated with a 4% [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.07] and 8% (95% CI 1.01-1.16) higher LTSA risk, respectively. Adjustment for leisure-time PA did not influence the results. CONCLUSION We found a dose-response association between device-measured forward bending of the back and prospective LTSA risk. This knowledge can be integrated into available feasible methods to measure forward bending of the back for improved workplace risk assessment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Gupta
- Department of musculoskeletal disorders and physical workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Skotte Bjerregaard
- Department of analysis and data, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Liyun Yang
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Huddinge, Sweden
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael Forsman
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Huddinge, Sweden
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Lund Rasmussen
- Department of musculoskeletal disorders and physical workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | | | - Els Clays
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- Department of musculoskeletal disorders and physical workload, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Forsman M, Fan X, Rhen IM, Lind CM. Mind the gap - development of conversion models between accelerometer- and IMU-based measurements of arm and trunk postures and movements in warehouse work. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 105:103841. [PMID: 35917697 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sensor type (accelerometers only versus inertial measurement units, IMUs) and angular velocity computational method (inclination versus generalized velocity) have been shown to affect the measurements of arm and trunk movements. This study developed models for conversions between accelerometer and IMU measurements of arm and trunk inclination and between accelerometer and IMU measurements of inclination and generalized (arm) velocities. Full-workday recordings from accelerometers and IMUs of arm and trunk postures and movements from 38 warehouse workers were used to develop 4 angular (posture) and 24 angular velocity (movement) conversion models for the distributions of the data. A power function with one coefficient and one exponent was used, and it correlated well (r2 > 0.999) in all cases to the average curves comparing one measurement with another. These conversion models facilitate the comparison and merging of measurements of arm and trunk movements collected using the two sensor types and the two computational methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Forsman
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-141 57, Huddinge, Sweden; IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE-113 65, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xuelong Fan
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ida-Märta Rhen
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE-113 65, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Industrial and Materials Science, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carl Mikael Lind
- IMM Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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Tjosvoll SO, Seeberg TM, Fimland MS, Wiggen Ø, Jahren SE. Classification of kneeling and squatting in workers wearing protective equipment: development and validation of a rule-based model using wireless triaxial accelerometers. ERGONOMICS 2022; 65:1410-1420. [PMID: 35133239 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2039410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Several professions in industries, such as petroleum, manufacturing, construction, mining, and forestry require prolonged work tasks in awkward postures, increasing workers' risks for musculoskeletal pain and injury. Therefore, we developed and validated a rule-based model for classifying unilateral and bilateral kneeling and squatting based on 15 individuals wearing personal protective equipment and using three wireless triaxial accelerometers. The model provided both high sensitivity and specificity for classifying kneeling (0.98; 0.98) and squatting (0.96; 0.91). Hence, this model has the potential to contribute to increased knowledge of physical work demands and exposure thresholds in working populations with strict occupational safety regulations. Practitioner summary: Our results indicate that this rule-based model can be applied in a human-factors perspective enabling high-quality quantitative information in the classification of occupational kneeling and squatting, known risk factors for musculoskeletal pain, and sick leave. This study is adapted for working populations wearing personal protective equipment and aimed for long-term measurements in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svein O Tjosvoll
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Trine M Seeberg
- Smart Sensor Systems, SINTEF Digital, SINTEF AS, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marius S Fimland
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Unicare Helsefort Rehabilitation Centre, Rissa, Norway
| | | | - Silje E Jahren
- Smart Sensor Systems, SINTEF Digital, SINTEF AS, Oslo, Norway
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Tjøsvoll SO, Wiggen Ø, Gonzalez V, Seeberg TM, Elez Redzovic S, Frostad Liaset I, Holtermann A, Steiro Fimland M. Assessment of Physical Work Demands of Home Care Workers in Norway: An Observational Study Using Wearable Sensor Technology. Ann Work Expo Health 2022; 66:1187-1198. [PMID: 35959647 PMCID: PMC9664225 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES High physical work demands are believed to be partly responsible for the high sickness absence among home care workers, but no studies have assessed their physical work demands using precise device-based measurements. Hence, the objective of this observational study was to assess physical work demands in home care, using wearable sensors. METHODS From six home care units in a large municipality in Norway, 114 of 195 eligible home care workers filled in a questionnaire, a diary about work hours, and wore five accelerometers, and a heart rate sensor for up to six consecutive workdays. RESULTS On average, the homecare workers spent 50% of the working hours sitting, 25.2% standing, 11.4% moving, 8.3% walking fast, 1.9% walking slow, 1.2% stair-climbing, 0.3% cycling, and 0.05% running. We found the following exposures to demanding postures: arm-elevation in an upright body position ≥30° was 36.7%, ≥60° was 4.1%, and ≥90°was 0.5%; forward trunk inclination in an upright body position ≥30° was 9.9%, ≥60° was 4%, and ≥90° was 1%; and for kneeling it was 0.8%. We found the average cardiovascular load (%heart rate reserve) during work to be 28%. There was considerable individual variation in these physical exposures at work. CONCLUSIONS This study presents precise information on various physical work demands of home care workers in Norway. Home care workers spent on average half the workday sitting and the remaining time in various occupational physical activities. Presently, few device-based exposure limits have been proposed for acceptable amounts of occupational physical exposures, but the level of arm-elevation, forward trunk inclination, and the considerable variation of physical workloads among home care workers, indicate that preventive measures should be taken.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Øystein Wiggen
- Health Research, SINTEF DIGITAL, SINTEF AS, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Victor Gonzalez
- Smart Sensor Systems, SINTEF DIGITAL, SINTEF AS, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trine M Seeberg
- Smart Sensor Systems, SINTEF DIGITAL, SINTEF AS, Oslo, Norway
| | - Skender Elez Redzovic
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ingeborg Frostad Liaset
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lerso Parkalle, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marius Steiro Fimland
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway,Unicare Helsefort Rehabilitation Centre, Rissa, Norway
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Oestergaard AS, Gupta N, Smidt TF, Sandal LF, Søgaard K. The objectively measured physical work demands and physical capacity of offshore wind technicians: An observational field study. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 102:103716. [PMID: 35247832 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to assess the physical capacity and physical work demands of wind service technicians (WT) in different field conditions (onshore and offshore workdays). We recruited 27 male WTs (mean age of 31 years (SD: ±7), VO2max of 46 mL O2/kg/min (SD: ±7)) and assessed their physical work demands for a total of 110 workdays using heart rate monitors and accelerometers at five body placements. On average, each day, sitting was the most recorded activity (43%), followed by standing (19%), lying (13%) moving (9%), walking (8%) and high intensity physical activities (1%). Additionally, 1 minute was spent on vertical climbing, 20 minutes on work with forward bent trunk, 13 minutes on work with elevated arms and 6 minutes kneeling. The average cardiovascular load was 22% and 4 minutes per day were spent at high cardiovascular intensities. We found significantly higher demands on offshore compared with onshore workdays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Skov Oestergaard
- Unit for Physical Activity and Health in Working Life, Institute of Biomechanics and Sports Science, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Ørsted A/S, QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety, Environment) Support, Gentofte, Denmark.
| | - Nidhi Gupta
- Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Workload, The National Research Centre of the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Trine Fernando Smidt
- Ørsted A/S, QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety, Environment) Support, Gentofte, Denmark.
| | - Louise Fleng Sandal
- Unit for Physical Activity and Health in Working Life, Institute of Biomechanics and Sports Science, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Karen Søgaard
- Unit for Physical Activity and Health in Working Life, Institute of Biomechanics and Sports Science, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
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de Barros FC, Moriguchi CS, Chaves TC, Andrews DM, Sonne M, de Oliveira Sato T. Usefulness of the Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) tool in detecting differences before and after an ergonomics intervention. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:526. [PMID: 35655178 PMCID: PMC9160176 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05490-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most ergonomics studies on office workstations evaluate the effects of an intervention only by subjective measures such as musculoskeletal pain and discomfort. Limited evidence has been provided regarding risk factor reduction in office environments through standardized methods assessments. The Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) tool can provide an estimation of risk factor exposure for office workers as a means by which the outcome of interventions can be quantified. Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate if ROSA scores reflect changes in risk factors after an ergonomics intervention among office workers. Methods Office workers (n = 60) were divided into two groups. The experimental group received a workstation intervention and the control group received no intervention. Changes in ROSA scores were compared before and after the intervention in both groups. Results Statistically significant reductions in the ROSA final and section scores occurred after the intervention in the experimental group with (mean reduction of 2.9, 0.8 and 1.6 points for sections A, B and C, respectively). In contrast, no differences were detected in the control group (mean increase of 0.1 point for sections A and C and mean reduction of 0.1 point for Section B). Conclusions These findings show that ROSA scores reflect changes in risk factors after an ergonomics intervention in an office environment. Consequently, this tool can be used for identifying and controlling risk factors among computer workers, before and after interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Cabegi de Barros
- Physical Therapy Department, Laboratory of Preventive Physical Therapy and Ergonomics (LAFIPE), Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, km 235, Monjolinho, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Shinohara Moriguchi
- Physical Therapy Department, Laboratory of Preventive Physical Therapy and Ergonomics (LAFIPE), Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, km 235, Monjolinho, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Thaís Cristina Chaves
- Physical Therapy Department, Laboratory of Preventive Physical Therapy and Ergonomics (LAFIPE), Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, km 235, Monjolinho, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - David M Andrews
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Sonne
- Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers Inc, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Tatiana de Oliveira Sato
- Physical Therapy Department, Laboratory of Preventive Physical Therapy and Ergonomics (LAFIPE), Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, km 235, Monjolinho, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13565-905, Brazil.
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The Importance of Lifting Height and Load Mass for Muscular Workload during Supermarket Stocking: Cross-Sectional Field Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19053030. [PMID: 35270722 PMCID: PMC8910655 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19053030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
High physical work demands increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and sickness absence. Supermarket work involves a high amount of manual material handling. Identifying specific ergonomic risk factors is an important part of occupational health and safety efforts in the supermarket sector. In this cross-sectional field study among 64 supermarket workers, we used electromyography during the workday to determine the influence of lifting height and load mass on muscular workload of the low-back and neck/shoulder muscles during un-restricted manual material handling (grocery stocking). We found a significant effect of load mass, i.e., higher loads associated with higher muscular workload in the low-back and neck/shoulder muscles. We demonstrated a significant interaction between start and end position, i.e., lifts performed from 'Low' start positions to 'High' end positions demonstrated the highest low-back muscular workload, whereas 'High' positions were associated with increased neck/shoulder workload. In conclusion, lifting higher loads and lifting goods from low to high positions (low-back) and at high positions (neck/shoulder) are associated with higher muscular workload. These results can be used to guide highly warranted preventive initiatives to reduce the physical workload during supermarket work.
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An Exploratory Study on the Physical Activity Health Paradox-Musculoskeletal Pain and Cardiovascular Load during Work and Leisure in Construction and Healthcare Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052751. [PMID: 35270444 PMCID: PMC8910306 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Using a novel approach, this exploratory study investigated whether the physical activity (PA) paradox extends to cardiovascular load and musculoskeletal pain. At baseline, 1–2 days of 24 h heart rate was assessed in 72 workers from construction and healthcare. Workers then reported pain intensity in 9 body regions (scale 0–3) every 6 months for two years. The 2 year average of musculoskeletal pain (sum of 9 pain scores; scale 0–27) was regressed on time spent during work and leisure above three thresholds of percentage heart rate reserve (%HRR), i.e., ≥20 %HRR, ≥30 %HRR, and ≥40 %HRR, using a novel ilr structure in compositional data analysis. Analyses were stratified for several important variables. Workers spending more time in physical activity at work had higher pain, while workers with more time in physical activity during leisure had less pain (i.e., the PA paradox), but none of the associations were statistically significant. Higher aerobic capacity and lower body mass index lowered the pain score among those with higher physical activity at work. This exploratory study suggests that the PA paradox may apply to musculoskeletal pain and future studies with larger sample sizes and additional exposure analyses are needed to explain why this occurs.
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Porta M, Orrù PF, Pau M. Use of wearable sensors to assess patterns of trunk flexion in young and old workers in the Metalworking Industry. ERGONOMICS 2021; 64:1543-1554. [PMID: 34180361 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2021.1948107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Workers exposed to repeated trunk flexions are at risk of onset of low-back disorders and in individuals aged over 50 this issue is exacerbated by the physiologic decline of the musculoskeletal system and longer lifetime occupational exposure. In this study, we investigated the existence of possible age-related differences in patterns of trunk flexion of workers in the metalworking industry. Thirty-three subjects were monitored during an actual shift using a wearable Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to assess trunk flexion angles (i.e. between 30° and 60°, 60°-90° and > 90°). Results show that older workers spent less time with their trunk flexed, regardless of the class of flexion considered, with respect to their younger colleagues. Although further studies are necessary to clarify the existence of strategies aimed at optimising trunk movements during ageing, the IMU-based approach appears useful in highlighting potentially harmful conditions, especially in workers with marked signs of decline in their physical capacities. Practitioner summary: Wearable sensors, which are well tolerated and minimally intrusive, represent a valid option to continuously monitor trunk posture in workers employed in metalworking industry. The results of this study show that they provide valuable information about the patterns of flexion of young and old individuals engaged in physically demanding tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Porta
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pier Francesco Orrù
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Zare M, Norval M, Bodin J, Roquelaure Y. Differences between risk situations identified using a self-reported questionnaire and an observational method. Work 2021; 68:759-769. [PMID: 33612518 DOI: 10.3233/wor-203409] [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] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigates work-related musculoskeletal disorders risk estimation by frequently as used as ergonomic methods in the field. OBJECTIVE To identify the difference in risk estimation by an in-house observational method and a self-reported questionnaire, and to evaluate the complementary aspects of these methods. METHODS A sample of 15 operators who worked on the assembly workstations was selected from a truck manufacturing plant. The risk assessment of these workstations (28 scenarios) was performed by the observational method and the self-reported questionnaire. The agreement between both methods to identify risk situations was measured with the weighted Kappa coefficient. RESULTS The observational method and the self-reported questionnaire deployed on the same activity estimated different risk situations. CONCLUSION This analysis does not reveal that one tool is more powerful than the other one, but shows the probability of different risk estimation. The complementary effect of each method might be considered for further investigation concerning musculoskeletal risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Zare
- ERCOSGroup (pole), Laboratory of ELLIAD-EA4661, UTBM-University of BourgogneFranche-Comté, France.,Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, Ehesp, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement ettravail - Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health), UMR S 1085, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Maxime Norval
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, Ehesp, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement ettravail - Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health), UMR S 1085, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Julie Bodin
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, Ehesp, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement ettravail - Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health), UMR S 1085, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Yves Roquelaure
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, Ehesp, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement ettravail - Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health), UMR S 1085, F-49000 Angers, France
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Lunde LK, Merkus S, Koch M, Knardahl S, Wærsted M, Veiersted KB. Associations of objectively measured total duration and maximum bout length of standing at work with lower-extremity pain intensity: a 2-year follow-up of construction and healthcare workers. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2021; 22:43. [PMID: 33413254 PMCID: PMC7791765 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03868-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Musculoskeletal disorders are among the major reasons for years lived with disability. Approximately one third of the European working population report lower-extremity discomfort and many attribute these discomforts to work-related factors. Employees in the healthcare and construction sectors reports high levels of lower-extremity pain and commonly relate the pain to their profession. These workers spend a large part of their workday standing. Periods of prolonged standing is suggested to increase lower-extremity symptoms, but this cannot be concluded on, since limited evidence is available from longitudinal studies using objective measures. This study aimed to determine possible associations between objectively measured total duration and maximum bout length of static- and dynamic standing at work and lower-extremity pain intensity (LEPi) among Norwegian construction- and healthcare workers. Methods One-hundred and twenty-three construction and healthcare workers wore two accelerometers for up to four consecutive days, to establish standing behavior at baseline. The participants reported LEPi (Likert scale 0–9) for the preceding 4 weeks at baseline and after 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. We investigated associations between standing at work and average and change in LEPi using linear mixed models with significance level p ≤ 0.05. Results Total duration of static- and dynamic standing showed weak associations with average LEPi, for the total sample and for construction workers. Maximum bout of static- and dynamic standing was associated with average LEPi in construction workers, but not in healthcare workers. Furthermore, we found no associations between standing and change in LEPi over the 2-year follow-up in any of our analyses. Conclusions This study indicate that objectively measured standing is associated with average LEPi over 2-years follow-up in construction workers, and that maximal bout of standing have a stronger association to LEPi than total duration. For every 10 min added to the maximal length of continuous standing during an average workday, we found approximately one unit increase in pain on a 0–9 scale. The lack of significant findings in analyses on healthcare workers suggest that the association between standing and LEPi depend on work-tasks, gender and/or other sector-specific factors. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-020-03868-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars-Kristian Lunde
- National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 5330, Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Suzanne Merkus
- National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 5330, Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Markus Koch
- National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 5330, Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stein Knardahl
- National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 5330, Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Morten Wærsted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 5330, Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kaj Bo Veiersted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 5330, Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
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Can a metric combining arm elevation and trapezius muscle activity predict neck/shoulder pain? A prospective cohort study in construction and healthcare. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 94:647-658. [PMID: 33278002 PMCID: PMC8068682 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01610-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether a composite metric of arm elevation and trapezius activity (i.e. neck/shoulder load) is more strongly associated with the 2-year course of neck and shoulder pain intensity (NSPi) among construction and healthcare workers than each exposure separately. METHODS Dominant arm elevation and upper trapezius muscle activity were estimated in construction and healthcare employees (n = 118) at baseline, using accelerometry and normalized surface electromyography (%MVE), respectively. At baseline and every 6 months for 2 years, workers reported NSPi (score 0-3). Compositions of working time were determined for arm elevation (< 30°; 30-60°; > 60°), trapezius activity (< 0.5%; 0.5-7.0%; > 7.0%MVE), and a composite metric "neck/shoulder load" (restitution, low, medium, and high load). Associations between each of these three compositions and the 2-year course of NSPi were determined using linear mixed models. RESULTS Associations between exposure compositions and the course of NSPi were all weak and in general uncertain. Time spent in 0.5-7.0%MVE showed the largest and most certain association with changes in NSPi during follow-up (β = - 0.13; p = 0.037; corresponding to a -0.01 change in NPSi every 6 months). Among pain-free workers at baseline, medium (β = - 0.23; p = 0.039) and high (β = 0.15; p = 0.031) neck/shoulder load contributed the most to explaining changes in NSPi. CONCLUSION The composite metric of neck/shoulder load did not show a stronger association with the course of NSPi than arm elevation or trapezius activity alone in the entire population, while some indications of a stronger association were found among those who were pain-free at baseline.
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Friel CP, Duran AT, Abdalla M, Unkart JT, Bellettiere J, Sims M, Correa A, Shimbo D, Diaz KM. Occupational standing and change in the Ankle-Brachial Index: the Jackson Heart Study. Occup Environ Med 2020; 78:oemed-2020-106905. [PMID: 33144360 PMCID: PMC8089112 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing interest in reducing occupational sitting has resulted in public health efforts to encourage intermittent standing in workplaces. However, concerns have been raised that standing for prolonged periods may expose individuals to new health hazards, including lower limb atherosclerosis. These concerns have yet to be corroborated or refuted. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between occupational standing and adverse changes in the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI). METHODS We studied 2121 participants from the Jackson Heart Study, a single-site community-based study of African-Americans residing in Jackson, MS. Occupational standing ('never/seldom', 'sometimes', 'often/always') was self-reported at baseline (2000-2004). ABI was measured at baseline and again at follow-up (2009-2013). RESULTS Over a median follow-up of 8 years, 247 participants (11.6%) exhibited a significant decline in ABI (eg, ABI decline >0.15). In multivariable-adjusted models, higher occupational standing was not significantly associated with ABI decline (occupational standing sometimes vs never/seldom: OR 1.05; 95% CI 0.67, 1.66; occupational standing often/always vs never/seldom: OR 1.22; 95% CI 0.77, 1.94). Similarly, higher occupational standing was not associated with low ABI at follow-up reflective of peripheral artery disease (ABI <0.90) or high ABI at follow-up reflective of incompressible vessels (ABI >1.40). CONCLUSIONS In this community-based study of African-Americans, we found no evidence that occupational standing is deleteriously associated with adverse changes in ABI over a median follow-up of 8.0 years. These findings do not provide evidence implicating occupational standing as a risk factor for lower limb atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciaran P Friel
- Feinstein Institutes of Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Andrea T Duran
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Marwah Abdalla
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Jonathan T Unkart
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - John Bellettiere
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Mario Sims
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Adolfo Correa
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Daichi Shimbo
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Keith M Diaz
- Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
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Work above shoulder level and shoulder complaints: a systematic review. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 93:925-954. [PMID: 32572582 PMCID: PMC7519900 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01551-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association and the exposure-response relationship between work above shoulder height and shoulder pain or disorders. METHODS A systematic search was performed in Medline, Embase, and Health and Safety Science Abstracts. Included were articles with prospective cohort, case-control, cross-sectional, or intervention study designs. Quality assessment was based on an evaluation scheme adjusted to study design and normalized to 100%. The cut-off for sufficient quality to include articles was above 40% and cut-off for high-quality articles was above 50% of maximal score. The level of strength of evidence for an association between exposure and effect was assessed according to the GRADE guidelines. RESULTS Thirty-four articles were included. Articles that document large effects (higher risk estimates; OR ≥ 2) have higher quality score, include analyses of severe arm elevation, more often use clinical outcome, and report an exposure-response relationship compared to studies reporting lower risk estimates. The studies that reported large effects were all significant. An exposure-response relationship was found in many high-quality studies when relating exposure intensity of arm elevation (level of arm elevation, amplitude) as well as duration of arm elevation, especially > 90°. CONCLUSION We conclude on a limited evidence for an association between arm elevation at work and shoulder disorders. Severe arm elevation with elbows above shoulder level (i.e., > 90°) shows a moderate evidence for an association with shoulder disorders.
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Hendriksen PF, Korshøj M, Skotte J, Holtermann A. Detection of kneeling and squatting during work using wireless triaxial accelerometers. ERGONOMICS 2020; 63:607-617. [PMID: 32100646 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2020.1734668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Occupational kneeling and squatting are well-documented risk factors for knee disorders. A method using 3 wireless accelerometers to detect and discriminate kneeling and squatting during work were developed based on data from a semi-standardised laboratory protocol. The method was tested for validity under free-living working conditions. The developed method showed high sensitivity (88-99%) and specificity (98-99%) for detection of kneeling and squatting during the semi-standardised laboratory conditions. During free-living working conditions, kneeling showed very high sensitivity (94%) and specificity (99%), while squatting results were non-conclusive due to limited duration of squatting during the free-living working conditions. This method shows great promise for long-term technical measurement of kneeling and squatting during normal working conditions using wireless accelerometers. The method opens up possibilities for using technical measurements to provide valid exposure assessments and intervention evaluations of kneeling and squatting, as well as increased feasibility for technical measurements in large cohort studies. Practitioner summary: Quantification of kneeling and squatting during work is important for prevention, but limited by either imprecise or costly methods. This study developed and validated an inexpensive wireless accelerometer-based measurement method that can be used by practitioners and researchers for long-term measurements of kneeling and squatting during free-living working conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mette Korshøj
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Skotte
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Svendsen MJ, Hendriksen PF, Schmidt KG, Stochkendahl MJ, Rasmussen CN, Holtermann A. Inter-Rater Reliability of Ergonomic Work Demands for Childcare Workers Using the Observation Instrument TRACK. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051607. [PMID: 32131510 PMCID: PMC7084378 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the inter-rater reliability of a newly developed instrument-TRACK (observaTion woRk demAnds Childcare worK) for observations of ergonomic work demands in childcare work. Two trained raters conducted thirty hours of concurrent observation of fifteen childcare workers in three different day nurseries. Inter-rater reliability of ergonomic work demands was evaluated using Gwet's Agreement Coefficient (AC1) and interpreted by the Landis and Koch benchmark scale. Twenty ergonomic work demand items were evaluated. Inter-rater reliability was 'almost perfect' for nine items (AC1 0.81-1.00), 'substantial' for four items (AC1 0.61-0.80), 'moderate' for four items (AC1 0.41-0.60), 'fair' for two items (AC1 0.21-0.40), and 'slight' (AC1 0.00-0.20) for one item. No items had 'poor' (AC1 < 0.00) agreement. The instrument is reliable for assessing ergonomic work demands in childcare in real-life settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Jagd Svendsen
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Work Demands, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; (P.F.H.); (K.G.S.); (C.N.R.); (A.H.)
- Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-3916-5466
| | - Peter Fjeldstad Hendriksen
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Work Demands, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; (P.F.H.); (K.G.S.); (C.N.R.); (A.H.)
| | - Kathrine Greby Schmidt
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Work Demands, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; (P.F.H.); (K.G.S.); (C.N.R.); (A.H.)
| | - Mette Jensen Stochkendahl
- Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark;
- Nordic Institute of Chiropractic and Clinical Biomechanics, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Nørregaard Rasmussen
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Work Demands, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; (P.F.H.); (K.G.S.); (C.N.R.); (A.H.)
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- Musculoskeletal Disorders and Physical Work Demands, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; (P.F.H.); (K.G.S.); (C.N.R.); (A.H.)
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Lunde LK, Koch M, Merkus SL, Knardahl S, Wærsted M, Veiersted KB. Associations of objectively measured forward bending at work with low-back pain intensity: a 2-year follow-up of construction and healthcare workers. Occup Environ Med 2020; 76:660-667. [PMID: 31413188 PMCID: PMC6824615 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2019-105861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to determine possible associations between objectively measured forward bending at work (FBW) and low-back pain intensity (LBPi) among Norwegian construction and healthcare workers. Methods One-hundred and twenty-five workers wore two accelerometers for 3–4 consecutive days, during work and leisure to establish duration of ≥30° and ≥60° forward bending. The participating workers reported LBPi (0–3) at the time of objective measurements and after 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. We investigated associations using linear mixed models with significance level p≤0.05 and presented results per 100 min. Results The duration of ≥30° and ≥60° FBW was not associated with average LBPi during follow-up, neither for the total sample nor stratified on work sector. Furthermore, analyses on all workers and on construction workers only found no significant association between ≥30° or ≥60° FBW and change in LBPi over the 2-year follow-up. For healthcare workers we found a consistent significant association between the duration of ≥30° FBW at baseline and the change in LBPi during follow-up, but this was not found for ≥60° FBW. Conclusions This study suggests that objectively measured duration of FBW in minutes is not associated with average levels of, or change in LBPi in construction workers over a 2-year period. In healthcare workers, exposure to ≥30° FBW was associated with change in LBPi, while we did not find this for ≥60° FBW. Results may indicate that the associations between FWB and LBP vary depending on type of work tasks, gender or sector-specific factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars-Kristian Lunde
- Department of Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Markus Koch
- Department of Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Suzanne Lerato Merkus
- Department of Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stein Knardahl
- Department of Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Morten Wærsted
- Department of Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kaj Bo Veiersted
- Department of Work Psychology and Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
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Association between Psychosocial Working Conditions and Perceived Physical Exertion among Eldercare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Multilevel Analysis of Nursing Homes, Wards and Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16193610. [PMID: 31561538 PMCID: PMC6801705 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16193610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This cross-sectional multilevel study aims at investigating the associations between psychosocial working conditions of different workplace levels and perceived physical exertion among eldercare workers. Data were obtained from the 'Danish Observational Study of Eldercare work and musculoskeletal disorderS' (DOSES) study, including 536 eldercare workers, nested in 126 wards and 20 nursing homes. Psychosocial working conditions were measured by the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ). The physical workload was measured with a self-administered scale (0-10) rating perceived physical exertion. Multilevel linear mixed models were used to determine associations of psychosocial conditions between nursing homes, wards, and workers with physical exertion. Most of the variance in the perceived physical exertion was explained by differences between workers (83%), but some variance was explained by wards (11%) and nursing homes (6%). Workers employed in nursing homes with low influence (p = 0.01) and poor leadership (p = 0.02), and in wards with high quantitative demands (p = 0.03), high work pace (p < 0.001), and low justice (p = 0.01) were at increased risk of reporting higher physical exertion. The strongest associations were found for low influence, low quality of leadership, and high work pace at nursing homes and ward levels. In conclusion, improving specific psychosocial working conditions at nursing home and ward levels may be of particular importance to reduce excessive physical workload in eldercare workers.
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Calibration of Self-Reported Time Spent Sitting, Standing and Walking among Office Workers: A Compositional Data Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16173111. [PMID: 31461868 PMCID: PMC6747301 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16173111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We developed and evaluated calibration models predicting objectively measured sitting, standing and walking time from self-reported data using a compositional data analysis (CoDA) approach. A total of 98 office workers (48 women) at the Swedish Transport Administration participated. At baseline and three-months follow-up, time spent sitting, standing and walking at work was assessed for five working days using a thigh-worn accelerometer (Actigraph), as well as by self-report (IPAQ). Individual compositions of time spent in the three behaviors were expressed by isometric log-ratios (ILR). Calibration models predicting objectively measured ILRs from self-reported ILRs were constructed using baseline data, and then validated using follow-up data. Un-calibrated self-reports were inaccurate; root-mean-square (RMS) errors of ILRs for sitting, standing and walking were 1.21, 1.24 and 1.03, respectively. Calibration reduced these errors to 36% (sitting), 40% (standing), and 24% (walking) of those prior to calibration. Calibration models remained effective for follow-up data, reducing RMS errors to 33% (sitting), 51% (standing), and 31% (walking). Thus, compositional calibration models were effective in reducing errors in self-reported physical behaviors during office work. Calibration of self-reports may present a cost-effective method for obtaining physical behavior data with satisfying accuracy in large-scale cohort and intervention studies.
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Boudet G, Chausse P, Thivel D, Rousset S, Mermillod M, Baker JS, Parreira LM, Esquirol Y, Duclos M, Dutheil F. How to Measure Sedentary Behavior at Work? Front Public Health 2019; 7:167. [PMID: 31355172 PMCID: PMC6633074 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Prolonged sedentary behavior (SB) is associated with increased risk for chronic conditions. A growing number of the workforce is employed in office setting with high occupational exposure to SB. There is a new focus in assessing, understanding and reducing SB in the workplace. There are many subjective (questionnaires) and objective methods (monitoring with wearable devices) available to determine SB. Therefore, we aimed to provide a global understanding on methods currently used for SB assessment at work. Methods: We carried out a systematic review on methods to measure SB at work. Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for peer-reviewed English-language articles published between 1st January 2000 and 17th March 2019. Results: We included 154 articles: 89 were cross-sectional and 65 were longitudinal studies, for a total of 474,091 participants. SB was assessed by self-reported questionnaires in 91 studies, by wearables devices in also 91 studies, and simultaneously by a questionnaire and wearables devices in 30 studies. Among the 91 studies using wearable devices, 73 studies used only one device, 15 studies used several devices, and three studies used complex physiological systems. Studies exploring SB on a large sample used significantly more only questionnaires and/or one wearable device. Conclusions: Available questionnaires are the most accessible method for studies on large population with a limited budget. For smaller groups, SB at work can be objectively measured with wearable devices (accelerometers, heart-rate monitors, pressure meters, goniometers, electromyography meters, gas-meters) and the results can be associated and compared with a subjective measure (questionnaire). The number of devices worn can increase the accuracy but make the analysis more complex and time consuming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Boudet
- Faculté de Médecine, Institut de Médecine du Travail, Université Clermont-Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre Chausse
- Cellule d'Accompagnement Technologique-Department of Technological Accompaniment, CNRS, LaPSCo, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - David Thivel
- Laboratory of the Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise Under Physiological and Pathological Conditions (AME2P EA 3533), Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France.,Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Rousset
- Unité de Nutrition Humaine, INRA, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Martial Mermillod
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France.,LPNC, CNRS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, Grenoble, France
| | - Julien S Baker
- School of Science and Sport, Institute of Clinical Exercise and Health Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Hamilton, United Kingdom
| | - Lenise M Parreira
- Faculté de Médecine, Institut de Médecine du Travail, Université Clermont-Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Yolande Esquirol
- Occupational and Preventive Medicine, INSERM UMR-1027, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse 3, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Martine Duclos
- Sport Medicine and Functional Explorations, CRNH, INRA UMR-1019, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Frédéric Dutheil
- LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, Preventive and Occupational Medicine, CNRS, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, WittyFit, Clermont-Ferrand, France.,Faculty of Health, School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Cumulative physical workload and mobility limitations in middle-aged men and women: a population-based study with retrospective assessment of workload. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2019; 92:651-660. [PMID: 30659363 PMCID: PMC6556152 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-019-01399-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the association between exposure to physical workload throughout working life and risk of mobility limitations in midlife in a population-based Danish cohort. METHODS The study was cross-sectional with a retrospective exposure assessment, and data were from a questionnaire used in the Copenhagen Aging and Biobank. Cumulative physical workload was estimated by combining information about the participants' employments and data from a job exposure matrix. Daily amount of lifting was standardised in ton-years (lifting 1000 kg/day/year) and grouped in 5 exposure groups (no/minor (1-2 ton-years)/low (3-10 ton-years)/moderate (11-20 ton-years)/high exposure (> 20 ton-years)). The outcome was self-reports of mobility limitations (running 100 m, walking 400 m, and climbing stairs to the 2nd floor) in midlife. The association between exposure and outcome was analysed using logistic regression models. RESULTS We included 4996 men and 2247 women, mean age 56 years. 21% of men and 10% of women were in the highest exposure-group (> 20 ton-years). Higher cumulative exposure was associated with higher odds for mobility limitations. Exposure to more than 20 ton-years compared to no exposure increased the odds for limitations in walking, age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) 3.2 (95% CI: 2.4-4.3) for men, 2.3 (1.4-3.8) for women. Corresponding results for running: 2.5 (2.2-3.0) for men, 1.6 (1.2-2.2) for women, and for limitations in climbing stairs: 4.2 (3.3-5.2) for men, 1.7 (1.2-2.4) for women. Results were attenuated when confounders were added. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to physical workload throughout working life is associated with higher odds for mobility limitations in midlife.
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The joint association of musculoskeletal pain and domains of physical activity with sleep problems: cross-sectional data from the DPhacto study, Denmark. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2018; 92:491-499. [DOI: 10.1007/s00420-018-1382-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Merkus SL, Lunde LK, Koch M, Wærsted M, Knardahl S, Veiersted KB. Physical capacity, occupational physical demands, and relative physical strain of older employees in construction and healthcare. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2018; 92:295-307. [PMID: 30443711 PMCID: PMC6420471 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-018-1377-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To assess age-related differences in physical capacity, occupational physical demands, and relative physical strain at a group level, and the balance between capacity and demands at an individual level, for construction and healthcare workers. Methods Shoulder strength, back strength, and aerobic capacity were assessed among construction (n = 62) and healthcare workers (n = 64). During a full working day, accelerometers estimated upper-arm elevation, trunk flexion, and occupational physical activity as indicators of occupational physical demands. Simultaneously, normalised surface electromyography (%sEMGmax) of the upper trapezius and erector spinae muscles, and normalised electrocardiography (percentage heart rate reserve (%HRR)) estimated relative physical strain. Differences between younger (≤ 44 years) and older (≥ 45 years) workers, as well as the moderating effect of age on the associations between capacity and demands, were analysed per sector. Results Compared to younger workers, older workers had similar strength and lower aerobic capacity; older construction workers had similar demands while older healthcare workers had higher demands. Compared to younger workers, older employees had unfavourable muscle activity patterns; %HRR had a tendency to be lower for older construction workers and higher for older healthcare workers. Among construction workers, age moderated the associations between shoulder strength and arm elevation (p = 0.021), and between aerobic capacity and occupational physical activity (p = 0.040). Age did not moderate these associations among healthcare workers. Conclusions In both sectors, the level of occupational physical demands and the higher relative physical strain in older employees require addressing to promote sustainable work participation among an aging population. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00420-018-1377-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne L Merkus
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330 Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Lars-Kristian Lunde
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330 Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Markus Koch
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330 Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Morten Wærsted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330 Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stein Knardahl
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330 Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kaj Bo Veiersted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330 Majorstuen, 0304, Oslo, Norway
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Locks F, Gupta N, Hallman D, Birk Jørgensen M, Oliveira AB, Holtermann A. Association between objectively measured static standing and low back pain - a cross-sectional study among blue-collar workers. ERGONOMICS 2018; 61:1196-1207. [PMID: 29560812 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2018.1455900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the cross-sectional association between objectively measured total time and temporal patterns of static standing (short bouts: 0-5 min; moderate bouts: >5-10 min; and long bouts: >10 min) during work and leisure and low back pain (LBP) among 698 blue-collar workers. Workers reported LBP on a 0-10 scale. The association between time spent on static standing and LBP was tested with linear regression. A positive association with LBP intensity was found for long bouts of static standing (β = 0.27) during total day (work + leisure), and total static standing time at leisure (β = 0.12). No significant associations were found for static standing during work and LBP intensity. These findings indicate that particularly long bouts of static standing over the entire day contribute to LBP in blue-collar workers. Practitioner Summary: The association between LBP and static standing time was investigated. This study indicates that prolonged time standing during total day and standing during leisure are positively associated with LBP among blue-collar workers. Therefore, practitioners should consider long periods of standing as a potential risk factor for LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Locks
- a Laboratory of Clinical and Occupational Kinesiology (LACO), Department of Physical Therapy , Federal University of São Carlos , São Carlos , Brazil
| | - Nidhi Gupta
- b National Research Centre for the Working Environment , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - David Hallman
- c Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research , University of Gävle , Gävle , Sweden
| | | | - Ana Beatriz Oliveira
- a Laboratory of Clinical and Occupational Kinesiology (LACO), Department of Physical Therapy , Federal University of São Carlos , São Carlos , Brazil
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- b National Research Centre for the Working Environment , Copenhagen , Denmark
- d Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics , University of Southern Denmark , Odense , Denmark
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Karstad K, Rugulies R, Skotte J, Munch PK, Greiner BA, Burdorf A, Søgaard K, Holtermann A. Inter-rater reliability of direct observations of the physical and psychosocial working conditions in eldercare: An evaluation in the DOSES project. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2018; 69:93-103. [PMID: 29477334 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to develop and evaluate the reliability of the "Danish observational study of eldercare work and musculoskeletal disorders" (DOSES) observation instrument to assess physical and psychosocial risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in eldercare work. During 1.5 years, sixteen raters conducted 117 inter-rater observations from 11 nursing homes. Reliability was evaluated using percent agreement and Gwet's AC1 coefficient. Of the 18 examined items, inter-rater reliability was excellent for 7 items (AC1>0.75) fair to good for 7 items (AC1 0.40-0.75) and poor for 2 items (AC1 0-0.40). For 2 items there was no agreement between the raters (AC1 <0). The reliability did not differ between the first and second half of the data collection period and the inter-rater observations were representative regarding occurrence of events in eldercare work. The instrument is appropriate for assessing physical and psychosocial risk factors for MSD among eldercare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Karstad
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark.
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark; Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, 1353 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Skotte
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Pernille Kold Munch
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Birgit A Greiner
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Alex Burdorf
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karen Søgaard
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløwparken 19, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
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Bloszies CS, Fiehn O. Using untargeted metabolomics for detecting exposome compounds. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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30
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Karstad K, Jørgensen AFB, Greiner BA, Burdorf A, Søgaard K, Rugulies R, Holtermann A. Danish Observational Study of Eldercare work and musculoskeletal disorderS (DOSES): a prospective study at 20 nursing homes in Denmark. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e019670. [PMID: 29490965 PMCID: PMC5855299 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-019670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), sickness absence and premature retirement are highly prevalent among eldercare workers. We conducted a prospective observational workplace study with the main purpose to investigate longitudinal associations between physical and psychosocial working conditions and occurrence of MSD and its consequences (pain-related interference with daily work activities and sickness absence) among Danish eldercare workers. PARTICIPANTS At 20 Danish nursing homes, a total of 941 eldercare workers employed in day and evening shifts were invited to the study. Of those, 553 participated in the baseline measurements, and 441 completed the total period of 12 months follow-up. FINDINGS TO DATE Data were collected from September 2013 to January 2016. Physical and psychosocial working conditions were assessed with multiple methods (observations, accelerometer measurements and work schedules), and multiple levels of information (nursing home, ward, resident and eldercare worker) were incorporated in the data collection. MSD and the consequences hereof were assessed monthly during a 1-year follow-up. Study participants and non-participants were comparable on most of the 27 sociodemographic, health and working condition characteristics at baseline. The exceptions were higher neck-shoulder pain intensity, less sickness absence, more exposure to negative behaviour from residents and a higher percentage of working day shifts and fewer evening shifts among participants compared with non-participants. FUTURE PLANS The first publications will report on the associations of physical and psychosocial working conditions with occurrence of MSD and its consequences. In addition, the cohort gives the opportunity to investigate the importance of organisational, management and team factors for distribution of physical work demands and development of MSD among the workers. This will provide important knowledge for future workplace interventions to reduce MSD and sickness absence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Karstad
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anette F B Jørgensen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Alex Burdorf
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karen Søgaard
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Association of objectively measured arm inclination with shoulder pain: A 6-month follow-up prospective study of construction and health care workers. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188372. [PMID: 29176761 PMCID: PMC5703553 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim was to determine the association of occupational arm inclination with shoulder pain in construction and health care workers. METHODS Arm inclination relative to the vertical was measured with an accelerometer placed on the dominant upper arm for up to four full days at baseline in 62 construction workers and 63 health care workers. The pain intensity in the shoulder and mechanical and psychosocial work factors were measured by self-reports at baseline and prospectively after 6 months. The associations between exposures and shoulder pain were analyzed with multilevel mixed-effects linear regressions. RESULTS For the total study population working with the dominant arm at inclinations > 30° and >120° was associated with lower levels of shoulder pain both cross-sectionally and after 6 months. Associations were attenuated when adjusting for individual and social factors, psychological state, and exposure during leisure time, especially for the high inclination levels. Analyses, only including subjects with no pain at baseline revealed no significant associations. While stratified analysis showed negative associations in the construction worker group, there were no significant association in health care workers. Compared to the number of hypotheses tested, the number of significant findings was low. Adjustment by Bonferroni-correction made almost all findings insignificant. CONCLUSIONS All analyses reflected a negative association between arm inclination and shoulder pain, but few analyses showed these associations to be statistically significant. If there is a relationship between arm inclination and shoulder pain, these findings could indicate that pain-avoidance may modify how workers perform their tasks.
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Holtermann A, Schellewald V, Mathiassen SE, Gupta N, Pinder A, Punakallio A, Veiersted KB, Weber B, Takala EP, Draicchio F, Enquist H, Desbrosses K, García Sanz MP, Malińska M, Villar M, Wichtl M, Strebl M, Forsman M, Lusa S, Tokarski T, Hendriksen P, Ellegast R. A practical guidance for assessments of sedentary behavior at work: A PEROSH initiative. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2017; 63:41-52. [PMID: 28502405 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Sedentary behavior is defined as sitting or lying with low energy expenditure. Humans in industrialized societies spend an increasing amount of time in sedentary behaviors every day. This has been associated with detrimental health outcomes. Despite a growing interest in the health effects of sedentary behavior at work, associations remain unclear, plausibly due to poor and diverse methods for assessing sedentary behavior. Thus, good practice guidance for researchers and practitioners on how to assess occupational sedentary behavior are needed. The aim of this paper is to provide a practical guidance for practitioners and researchers on how to assess occupational sedentary behavior. Ambulatory systems for use in field applications (wearables) are a promising approach for sedentary behavior assessment. Many different small-size consumer wearables, with long battery life and high data storage capacity are commercially available today. However, no stand-alone commercial system is able to assess sedentary behavior in accordance with its definition. The present paper offers decision support for practitioners and researchers in selecting wearables and data collection strategies for their purpose of study on sedentary behavior. Valid and reliable assessment of occupational sedentary behavior is currently not easy. Several aspects need to be considered in the decision process on how to assess sedentary behavior. There is a need for development of a cheap and easily useable wearable for assessment of occupational sedentary behavior by researchers and practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Vera Schellewald
- German Sport University Cologne (DSHS), Köln, Germany; Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | | | - Nidhi Gupta
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andrew Pinder
- HSE's Health & Safety Laboratory (HSL), Buxton, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Punakallio
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Britta Weber
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Esa-Pekka Takala
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Francesco Draicchio
- National Institute for Insurance Against Accidents at Work (INAIL), Rome, Italy
| | - Henrik Enquist
- Lund University, Skane Medical Services, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kevin Desbrosses
- French National Research and Safety Institute for the Prevention of Occupational Accidents and Diseases (INRS), Vandoeuvre Les Nancy, France
| | | | - Marzena Malińska
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warszawa, Poland
| | - María Villar
- Spanish National Institute for Safety and Hygiene at Work (INSHT), Madrid, Spain
| | - Michael Wichtl
- Austrian Workers' Compensation Board (AUVA), Wien, Austria
| | | | | | - Sirpa Lusa
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tomasz Tokarski
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warszawa, Poland
| | - Peter Hendriksen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rolf Ellegast
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
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Tynes T, Aagestad C, Thorsen SV, Andersen LL, Perkio-Makela M, García FJP, Blanco LG, Vermeylen G, Parent-Thirion A, Hooftman W, Houtman I, Liebers F, Burr H, Formazin M. Physical working conditions as covered in European monitoring questionnaires. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:544. [PMID: 28583093 PMCID: PMC5460526 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4465-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of workers with demanding physical working conditions in the European work force remains high, and occupational physical exposures are considered important risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), a major burden for both workers and society. Exposures to physical workloads are therefore part of the European nationwide surveys to monitor working conditions and health. An interesting question is to what extent the same domains, dimensions and items referring to the physical workloads are covered in the surveys. The purpose of this paper is to determine 1) which domains and dimensions of the physical workloads are monitored in surveys at the national level and the EU level and 2) the degree of European consensus among these surveys regarding coverage of individual domains and dimensions. Method Items on physical workloads used in one European wide/Spanish and five other European nationwide work environment surveys were classified into the domains and dimensions they cover, using a taxonomy agreed upon among all participating partners. Results The taxonomy reveals that there is a modest overlap between the domains covered in the surveys, but when considering dimensions, the results indicate a lower agreement. The phrasing of items and answering categories differs between the surveys. Among the domains, the three domains covered by all surveys are “lifting, holding & carrying of loads/pushing & pulling of loads”, “awkward body postures” and “vibrations”. The three domains covered less well, that is only by three surveys or less, are “physical work effort”, “working sitting”, and “mixed exposure”. Conclusions This is the fırst thorough overview to evaluate the coverage of domains and dimensions of self-reported physical workloads in a selection of European nationwide surveys. We hope the overview will provide input to the revisions and updates of the individual countries’ surveys in order to enhance coverage of relevant domains and dimensions in all surveys and to increase the informational value of the surveys. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-017-4465-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tore Tynes
- Statens arbeidsmiljøinstitutt (National Institute of Occupational Health), Gydas vei 8, Majorstuen, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Cecilie Aagestad
- Statens arbeidsmiljøinstitutt (National Institute of Occupational Health), Gydas vei 8, Majorstuen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sannie Vester Thorsen
- Det Nationale Forskningscenter for Arbejdsmiljø (National Research Center for the Working Environment), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, København Ø, Denmark
| | - Lars Louis Andersen
- Det Nationale Forskningscenter for Arbejdsmiljø (National Research Center for the Working Environment), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, København Ø, Denmark
| | - Merja Perkio-Makela
- Työterveyslaitos (Finnish Institute of Occupational Health), Topeliuksenkatu 41 b, 00250, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Francisco Javier Pinilla García
- Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo (National Institute of Safety and Hygiene at Work), Calle de Torrelaguna 73, 28027, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luz Galiana Blanco
- Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo (National Institute of Safety and Hygiene at Work), Calle de Torrelaguna 73, 28027, Madrid, Spain
| | - Greet Vermeylen
- European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound), Wyattville Road, Loughlinstown, Dublin, 18, Ireland
| | - Agnes Parent-Thirion
- European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound), Wyattville Road, Loughlinstown, Dublin, 18, Ireland
| | | | | | - Falk Liebers
- Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin (Federal Institute for Occupational Safety & Health), Department "Work & Health", Nöldnerstraße 40-42, 10317, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hermann Burr
- Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin (Federal Institute for Occupational Safety & Health), Department "Work & Health", Nöldnerstraße 40-42, 10317, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maren Formazin
- Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin (Federal Institute for Occupational Safety & Health), Department "Work & Health", Nöldnerstraße 40-42, 10317, Berlin, Germany
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