Work-A Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation最新文献

BackgroundTurboprop aircraft offer the possibility of lower emissions for regional travel in comparison to jets. Future low-carbon aircraft concepts include propeller-generated thrust powered from fuel cells, hydrogen, biofuel, battery or hybrid power. The noise and vibration experienced in a turboprop cabin is different to that experienced in a jet, with signals characterised by tonal components related to the propeller blade pass frequency. These components have been associated with noise and vibration discomfort. There are few published studies of aircraft cabin vibration measured on the seat surface according to ISO2631-1; none report data for the whole flight.ObjectiveThe objective was to measure and evaluate the vibration experienced by passengers for complete turboprop flights and compare vibration data with standards associated with vibration comfort.MethodsVibration data was measured on the surface of three occupied seats during two turboprop aircraft flights. Measurements were made on full flights, and covered the entire duration from gate-to-gate.ResultsData showed that the vibration is highly tonal, and is affected by position and flight phase. Frequency-weighted vibration showed magnitudes below thresholds for health risk. The highest magnitudes of vibration occurred at the blade pass frequency and its harmonics. These frequencies are rejected by standard comfort assessment methods that use frequency weightings.ConclusionsWhole-body vibration exposure in the turboprop tested in this study did not approach health risk thresholds using ISO2631-1. Analysis of the vibrational comfort requires use of band-limited vibration assessment methods to include the dominant vibration components in analysis.

BackgroundHeavy loads are carried out manually by rice mill workers, which causes a considerably high compressive force on the spine, particularly in the L4-L5 region.ObjectiveTo assess the posture and discomfort experienced by the rice mill workers in manual materials handling (MMH) tasks. To estimate the moment and back compressive force (BCF) at L4-L5 using digital human modeling (DHM).MethodsThe posture of 12 males was measured for three MMH tasks and three modes of load carrying. The measured posture was analyzed using the Kinovea software. A manikin was developed using CATIA software to estimate the moment and BCF. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) discomfort score was estimated on the developed manikin. A survey was carried out using a modified Nordic questionnaire to assess the discomfort among the workers.ResultsThe torso flexion varied from 39.6° to 52° and 3.4° to 7.7° for load carrying on back and on head, respectively. The moment and BCF at L4-L5 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher for load carrying on back as compared to load carrying on head. The BCF at L4-L5 during load carrying on back was higher than the threshold limit of 3400 N. The RULA score during load carrying on back was 5 on 7-point scale. The mean discomfort score was relatively higher on the lower back and upper back.ConclusionsRULA score and BCF suggest the need for intervention to reduce discomfort and compressive force at L4-L5 among rice mill workers.

BackgroundIn recent years in-chair movements (ICM) have gained attention in comfort and discomfort studies, but the role of these movements in preventing and/or alleviating discomfort remains unclear. Furthermore, differences in study design and terminology make cross-study comparisons difficult.ObjectiveThis study aims to synthesize current research on ICM, particularly the categorization of different ICM types. It also aims to provide an overview of ICM over time, focusing on their progressions, characteristics, and possible patterns.MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted based on the PRISMA framework using Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. Data from the included studies were extracted and organized according to three ICM descriptors: frequency, amplitude, and posture change.ResultsEighteen out of 230 identified papers met the inclusion criteria. Substantial heterogeneity in terminology and measurement partly explains inconsistencies in findings. Across most studies, ICM frequency increased over time, although a minority reported decreased movement or a "stiffening effect". Findings regarding ICM amplitude were inconsistent, while a shift or change toward more slumped posture appears to be especially common during driving activities. These variations suggest that ICM patterns are influenced by task demands, seat characteristics, and individual differences.ConclusionICM patterns are not solely time-dependent but are shaped by seat characteristics, task demands, and individual factors. While several studies suggest correlations between ICM strategies and discomfort, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Developing a comprehensive ICM framework that integrates movement strategies, and active or dynamic seating approaches will benefit cross-study comparability and provide directions for future ICM research.

BackgroundIn-depth studies highlight that trust is essential for the effective interaction with autonomous vehicles, which, have not yet gained public trust.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to develop and validate a comprehensive questionnaire to evaluate people's trust in autonomous vehicles.MethodsAfter identifying influential factors in trust by interviews and brainstorming sessions, 75 questions across 5 dimensions were developed, which were then narrowed to 69 in 3 dimensions using "thinking aloud". This version was assessed by 24 experts, resulting in 19 responses and the exclusion of 22 questions based on CVI and CVR. Finally, the reliability was determined using Cronbach's Alpha after an experiment with 24 participants.ResultsA 47-item questionnaire, with 3 dimensions including personal, social, and technical factors, and 21 sub-dimensions was developed. The lowest CVI (0.63) was for "mental complexity" and the highest (0.90) belonged to "personality". The least CVR (0.56) for "meaningfulness attitude" was acquired, while the highest CVR (1.00) was recorded for 9 questions. Total Cronbach's Alpha coefficient (0.93) showed satisfactory reliability.ConclusionsThis validated instrument offers a comprehensive tool for evaluating trust in AVs for future studies.

BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is one of the common self-reported of musculoskeletal pain among working the population. Nonetheless, its influence on work productivity specifically absenteeism and presenteeism among Malaysian academics remains unknown.ObjectiveTherefore, this study aims to investigate the influence of LBP on work productivity among academics.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study assessing the association of LBP on work productivity (absenteeism and presenteeism) among academics. A self-administered questionnaire was used to obtain the study information. Data was analyzed using linear regression and reported in term of unstandardized coefficient (B) and 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultsA total of 411 academics participated with median age 40.5 years. The mean prevalence of absenteeism and presenteeism due to LBP is 2.3% and 19.89% respectively. Occurrence of LBP and its severity were not significantly associated with absenteeism. Nonetheless, LBP severity and anxiety symptoms were significantly associated with increased presenteeism.ConclusionThe prevalence of presenteeism due to LBP among academics is notably higher than absenteeism. Increases in LBP severity and anxiety were significantly linked to higher rates of presenteeism. Therefore, academic institutions should implement interactive and sustainable workplace wellness programs to enhance their employees' health and well-being, which may lead to improve their work productivity.

BackgroundIn increasingly dynamic and innovation-driven healthcare environments, fostering intrapreneurship among employes is critical for organizational resilience and progress. While proactive personality traits are known to support such innovative behaviors, the broader organizational climate-particularly the presence of organizational cynicism-may significantly constrain this effect. Research exploring this interaction remains limited, especially in healthcare settings.ObjectiveThis study aims to examine whether organizational cynicism moderates the relationship between proactive personality traits and intrapreneurial behavior among healthcare professionals working in public hospitals.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted with 330 healthcare workers from public hospitals in Niğde, Turkey, between July and December 2021. Data were collected using validated instruments measuring proactive personality, organizational cynicism, and intrapreneurship. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, regression analysis, structural equation modeling (SEM), and Hayes' PROCESS macro (Model 1) for moderation testing with 10,000 bootstrap samples.ResultsFindings revealed a significant positive association between proactive personality and intrapreneurship (r = .422, p < .01), and a significant negative correlation between proactive personality and organizational cynicism (r = -.430, p < .01). Regression analysis confirmed the positive impact of proactive personality on intrapreneurial behavior (β = 0.044, p < .001). The moderation analysis showed that organizational cynicism significantly weakens this positive relationship (β = -0.062, p < .05).ConclusionsThese results highlight the critical interplay between individual traits and organizational culture. While proactive personality enhances intrapreneurship, high levels of cynicism undermine this effect. Reducing organizational cynicism and fostering trust-based environments may amplify the benefits of proactive traits in healthcare institutions.

BackgroundManual lifting tasks are a leading cause of occupational low back disorders (LBD).ObjectiveThis study aimed to predict the compressive force (CPF) at L5/S1 among young Thai lifting workers.MethodsSixty healthy Thais aged from 18 to 24, evenly divided by gender, performed repetitive lifting tasks with five different lifting frequencies (1, 2, 4, 6, and 12 lifts/minute). A three-dimension static strength prediction program (3D SSPP) was used to identify the injury risk on the low back L5/S1 using biomechanical criteria (compression and shear forces) at extreme postures. Multiple linear regression analysis (MLRA) was used to predict factors related to the CPF.ResultsThe load weight significantly impacted the CPF at L5/S1 joint for both the lift origin and destination. Lift origin, load weight, trunk angle, body mass index (BMI), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) significantly affected the CPF exerted at L5/S1 for lift origin (p < 0.001). In part of the CPF for the lift destination, load weight, trunk angle, forearm angle, BMI, lifting frequency, and gender were significantly influential. The CPF at L5/S1 for the lift origin and destination in males exceeded that of females at every lifting frequency.ConclusionsThis study helps identify ergonomics risks and may be used to determine the proper weight load for reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSI). Therefore, based on the findings of this study, the ergonomic training programs focusing on lifting techniques should consider to improve awareness of MSI.

BackgroundWork is essential for social inclusion, yet individuals with physical, sensory, or chronic pain disabilities face unique barriers to employment despite existing laws and policies. This study aimed to model the different employment integration pathways for people with these disabilities.ObjectiveThe objective was to explore and categorize employment integration pathways for individuals with physical, sensory, or chronic pain disabilities, identifying key factors influencing their journey into the workforce.MethodsA qualitative phenomenological approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews with 83 participants from urban, semi-urban, and rural areas, either employed or seeking employment. The interviews were analyzed thematically to identify patterns and construct a typology of pathways.ResultsThree distinct pathways emerged: linear, obstacle-ridden, and reorientation. All participants reported facing discrimination, with the obstacle-ridden pathway seeing the highest incidence. Many participants across all pathways were overqualified for their jobs. The integration of virtual platforms in the workplace was seen as beneficial, reducing barriers related to travel and communication.ConclusionsThis study enhances understanding of employment integration for people with physical disabilities in Quebec's workplace and educational systems. Despite laws and policies aimed at promoting inclusion, individuals with disabilities continue to encounter systemic barriers. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address these challenges and improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities.

BackgroundAutism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), present challenges, particularly with respect to employment. The Roim-Rachok Program (RRP) trains individuals with ASD for roles in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), to enhance these individuals' workforce integration. To date, no studies have investigated the professional work performance of RRP participants from the perspective of their military commanders.ObjectiveThis study evaluated IDF commanders' perceptions of the work performance of RRP soldiers and assessed the support these soldiers need for optimal accomplishment of their job profiles.MethodsA cross-sectional quantitative study of 45 commanders (M = 27.0, SD = 7.5) was conducted. Data was collected using a 12-item Commanders' Questionnaire (TCQ) that assessed the task performance, independence, work quality, and perseverance of the 70 ASD soldiers under their orders. Descriptive and non-parametric analyses were applied to explore the associations between the commanders' background and their perceptions of these soldiers' performance.ResultsVarimax rotation yielded four domains: Performance at Work, Work Quality, Independence, and Perseverance. The commanders rated RRP soldiers similarly to non-ASD soldiers, but gave higher ratings for accuracy and task persistence, and lower ratings for work pace. Older and more senior commanders rated the soldiers' perseverance and independence more highly. No significant associations were found for gender or soldiers' length of service.ConclusionsRRP soldiers excel on tasks requiring accuracy, perseverance, and routines, but face challenges with task versatility and learning new tasks. The structured military environment accommodates ASD individuals well and can serve as a foundation for future civilian employment.