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Wu JZ, Pan CS, Ronaghi M, Wimer BM. Testing the shock protection performance of Type I construction helmets using impactors of different masses. Biomed Mater Eng 2024; 35:351-363. [PMID: 38669519 PMCID: PMC11292649 DOI: 10.3233/bme-230173] [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] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wearing protective helmets is an important prevention strategy to reduce work-related traumatic brain injuries. The existing standardized testing systems are used for quality control and do not provide a quantitative measure of the helmet performance. OBJECTIVE To analyze the failure characterizations of Type I industrial helmets and develop a generalized approach to quantify the shock absorption performance of Type I industrial helmets based on the existing standardized setups. METHODS A representative basic Type I construction helmet model was selected for the study. Top impact tests were performed on the helmets at different drop heights using two different impactor masses (3.6 and 5.0 kg). RESULTS When the helmets were impacted with potential impact energies smaller than the critical potential impact energy values, there was a consistent relationship between the peak impact force and the potential impact energy. When the helmets were impacted under potential impact energies greater than the critical potential impact energy values, the peak impact forces increased steeply with increasing potential impact energy. CONCLUSION A concept of safety margin for construction helmets based on potential impact energy was introduced to quantify the helmets' shock absorption performance. The proposed method will help helmet manufacturers improve their product quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Z. Wu
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Christopher S. Pan
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Mahmood Ronaghi
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Bryan M. Wimer
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
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Andreae ME, Grafton LM, Hong JS, Vidt ME. Treatment and Management of Work-Related Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 102:560-566. [PMID: 36729646 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000002169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The purpose of this narrative review was to assess work-related mild traumatic brain injury treatment approaches and outcomes. Literature indicates that incidence of work-related mild traumatic brain injury is high. Ability to return to work after injury is variable, with differences identified across industry sector, mechanisms of injury, sex, and timely treatment and referral. Additional challenges exist in the context of secondary gains (e.g., financial) and the potential for symptom exaggeration. Emerging evidence from studies outside the United States demonstrate the benefits of proactive assessment and treatment at the time of injury. These benefits can be further augmented by early referral to multidisciplinary treatment teams led by physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians. Opportunities for ongoing research and development of strategies to improve treatment, management, and more timely return to work for patients with occupational mild traumatic brain injury are discussed. It is concluded that challenges persist in treatment and management of patients with work-related mild traumatic brain injury as they present unique challenges not seen in those with nonwork-related mild traumatic brain injuries. The unique position of physical medicine and rehabilitation and the skills of physiatrists render them poised to lead multidisciplinary treatment teams for these patients and contribute to the development of a new guideline for return to work, with an emphasis on functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mollie E Andreae
- From the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania (MEA, LMG, JSH, MEV); and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania (MEV)
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Snow C, Baldwin B, Hurst M, Colantonio A, Mollayeva T. Utility of Person-Environment-Occupation model in exploring sex-specific causes of work-related traumatic brain injury: a retrospective chart review. Brain Inj 2023; 37:485-493. [PMID: 36919536 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2023.2187087] [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: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Work-related traumatic brain injury (wr-TBI) is on the rise. The pre-injury period, a significant consideration for preventive initiatives, is largely unexplored. OBJECTIVES To identify Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) variables associated with wr-TBI to inform sex-specific primary prevention. METHODS Retrospective chart review data were analyses. Two-tailed t-test and chi-squared tests were used to study sex differences. Multivariate logistic regression models of wr-TBI were fit with a priori defined PEO variables. RESULTS The sample comprised 330 consecutive workers with wr-TBI (40.8 ± 11.1 years old, 71% male). Sex differences were observed across PEO variables. In multivariable logistic regression analyses the odds of sustaining a wr-TBI from a fall increased with the presence of a mood disorder and participation in non-labourer occupations (odds ratio (OR) 2.89 (95% CI 1.06-7.89) and OR 2.89 (95% CI 1.06-7.89), respectively) and decreased being a male (OR 0.31 (95% CI 0.17-0.54)). The odds of sustaining a wr-TBI from being striken by an object was greater in workers with prior head injury (OR 2.8 (95% CI 1.24-6.45)). None of the variables studied were associated with wr-TBI sustained from being striken against an object. CONCLUSIONS Workers' health status pre-injury is associated with external causes of wr-TBI. Sex differences across PEO categories warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cori Snow
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Acquired Brain Injury Research Lab, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bristol Baldwin
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Acquired Brain Injury Research Lab, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mackenzie Hurst
- KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Angela Colantonio
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Acquired Brain Injury Research Lab, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tatyana Mollayeva
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Acquired Brain Injury Research Lab, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Bae SW, Lee MY. Incidence of Traumatic Brain Injury by Severity Among Work-Related Injured Workers From 2010 to 2019: An Analysis of Workers' Compensation Insurance Data in Korea. J Occup Environ Med 2022; 64:731-736. [PMID: 35673265 PMCID: PMC9426740 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the status of work-related traumatic brain injury (wrTBI) in Korea between 2010 and 2019. METHODS This study used Korea Workers' Compensation Insurance data, and the sample comprised workers who claimed compensation for wrTBI from 2010 to 2019. The annual incidence of wrTBI was calculated as the rate per 100,000 workers. Time trends over the 10-year period were assessed using Poisson regression. RESULTS The mean incidence of wrTBI was 28.4/100,000. Regarding the incidence rate of wrTBI by severity, mild TBI and moderate-to-severe TBI were 12.9/100,000 and 15.5/100,000, respectively. The incidence of mild TBI among workers was higher in 2010, but moderate-to-severe TBI was higher after 2011. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the need for providing information on mild TBI to workers as part of occupational safety and health education.
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Toccalino D, Colantonio A, Chan V. Update on the epidemiology of work-related traumatic brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Occup Environ Med 2021; 78:769-776. [PMID: 33380517 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-107005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a public health concern that can occur in a range of contexts. Work-related TBI (wrTBI) is particularly concerning. Despite overall work-related injury claims decreasing, the proportion of claims that are wrTBI have increased, suggesting prevention and support of wrTBI requires ongoing attention. OBJECTIVES This review aimed to provide updated information on the burden and risk factors of wrTBI among the working adult population. METHODS Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) were searched using a combination of TBI, work, and epidemiology text words and medical subject headings. Two reviewers independently assessed articles for inclusion. Meta-analyses were conducted to estimate prevalence and mortality of wrTBI and a narrative synthesis was conducted to provide additional context. RESULTS Pooled proportions meta-analyses estimate that 17.9% of TBIs were work-related and 6.3% of work-related injuries resulted in TBI, with 3.6% of wrTBI resulting in death. Populations of wrTBI were predominantly male (76.2%) and were 40.4 years of age, on average. The most commonly reported industries for wrTBI were education and training, healthcare and social assistance, construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Falls, being struck by an object or person, motor vehicle collisions, and assaults were the most commonly reported mechanisms of wrTBI. CONCLUSIONS A better understanding of the epidemiology of wrTBI can inform prevention and management strategies. This review highlights existing gaps, including a notable lack of sex or gender stratified data, to direct future investigation. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020169642.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Toccalino
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angela Colantonio
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy; Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,KITE -Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vincy Chan
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,KITE -Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Mollayeva T, Sharma B, Vernich L, Mantis S, Lewko J, Gibson B, Liss G, Kontos P, Grigorovich A, Colantonio A. Sleep before and after work-related concussion: Sex differences in effects and functional outcomes. Work 2020; 67:927-938. [PMID: 33325439 DOI: 10.3233/wor-203343] [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 Recent studies have started disentangling components of disturbed sleep as part of the post-concussive syndrome, but little is known about the workers with an injury' perspectives on post-injury sleep changes or what causes these changes. OBJECTIVES To determine the effects of work-related concussion/mild traumatic brain injury (wr-mTBI) on perceptions of refreshing sleep in workers with an injury and to identify the relevant factors responsible for sleep changes. METHODS We studied post-concussive changes in sleep in 66 adults (50% male workers, 42% aged 30-50 years, median post-injury days: 155) who had sustained wr-mTBI and experienced functional limitations long after the injury. We collected sociodemographic, occupational and health status data and identified variables related to post-concussive changes in refreshing sleep. RESULTS Forty-seven workers with wr-mTBI (79% of male workers, 64% of female workers) perceived their sleep as being refreshing before injury and unrefreshing afterwards (χ2 = 67.70 for change, χ2 = 27.6 for female and χ2 = 41.1 for male workers, p < 0.0001). Post-concussive losses in refreshing sleep were associated with socio demographic, occupational, and health status data variables. Sex stratification revealed differences between male and female workers. CONCLUSIONS Workers with wr-mTBI experience clinically meaningful changes in refreshing sleep that are associated with modifiable variables. The observed differences in functional outcomes between male and female workers warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana Mollayeva
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Acquired Brain Injury Research Lab, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bhanu Sharma
- KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lee Vernich
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Steve Mantis
- Ontario Network of Injured Workers Groups, Research Action Committee, Toronto, Canada
| | - John Lewko
- School of Rural and Northern Health, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Brian Gibson
- Division of Clinical Public Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Gary Liss
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Pia Kontos
- KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Social and Behavioural Health Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alisa Grigorovich
- KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Social and Behavioural Health Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Angela Colantonio
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Acquired Brain Injury Research Lab, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Nowrouzi-Kia B, Sharma B, Lewko J, Colantonio A. Critical methodological considerations in recruiting and engaging non-native English speaking workers with a head injury: a Canadian perspective. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:184. [PMID: 32228716 PMCID: PMC7106822 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05028-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Non-native English speaking workers with a mild work-related traumatic brain and/or head injury are a vulnerable and underrepresented population in research studies. The researchers present their experiences with recruiting and performing qualitative interviews with non-native English speaking individuals with a work-related mild traumatic brain injury, and provide recommendations on how to better include this vulnerable population in future research studies. This paper presents considerations regarding ethics, recruitment challenges, interview preparation and debriefing, sex & gender and language and cultural issues must be made when working with this vulnerable population. RESULTS The researchers discuss critical issues and provide recommendations in recruiting and engaging with non-native English language workers including ethics, recruitment challenges, interview preparation and debriefing, sex & gender and language, and cultural considerations that must be made when working with this population. The study recommendations advise investigators to spend more time to learn about the non-native English participants in the mild wrTBI context, to be familiar with the vulnerabilities and specific circumstances that these workers experience. By increasing their awareness of the challenging facing this vulnerable population, the intention is to provide better care and treatment options through evidence-based research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Nowrouzi-Kia
- Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada. .,Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada. .,Rehabilitation Science Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. .,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. .,School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Canada.
| | - B Sharma
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - J Lewko
- Centre for Research in Human Development, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - A Colantonio
- Rehabilitation Science Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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