Investigating the influence of keyboard inclinations on sitting and standing workstations.

Given the growing global computer workforce, concerns exist about the escalation of computer related injury with Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) being one of the most reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among office workers. The optimal range of keyboard angles for sitting and standing positions based on wrist posture, forearm muscle activities and user preference as well as the keyboard location in relation to user position were analysed. 30 volunteers with an above 40 words per minute typing speed participated in this study. Result show that, although user prefer to use positive keyboard angle, the negatively tilted keyboard is more ergonomically friendly at both sitting and standing workstations, reducing muscle activity and awkward wrist posture while maintaining performance. The findings indicate that negative sloped keyboard might have the possibility to reduce the risk of developing CTS in office workers.Practitioner summary: This study determines the range of optimal slope of keyboard angle in a sit and stand workstation. Our results indicate a trend in the negative slope keyboard as an ergonomically friendly option for the intervention to Carpal tunnel pressure.

Musculoskeletal disorders among dental students: a survey from Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) are injuries affecting bones, joints, muscles, and tendons due to improper working conditions with serious consequences on health and career. Dentists were found to be at greater risk of developing WMSD compared to other healthcare providers. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of WMSD among dental students in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This cross-sectional survey-based study recruited dental students across the kingdom using respondent-driven sampling technique. Data was collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal scale and a validated, self- administered, close-ended questionnaire which assessed WMSDs predisposing factors, enabling factors and musculoskeletal disorders consequences and management. The questionnaire was administered in both Arabic and English languages and was distributed online using google forms. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, Chi-square test or Fisher Exact test was used where appropriate and Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of developing WMSDs. RESULTS: The prevalence of WMSD was 87% (95% CL; 83.9% to 90.3%) among the 462 respondents. Gender, study year, type of practice, having clinics for left-handed, hours of clinical practice, sitting in the proper position while working, use of coping strategies were significantly associated with WMSD prevalence (P < 0.05). Males were OR = 10 times at higher risk of WMSD compared to females (P = 0.0001). Those with daily clinical practice were OR = 5 times at higher risk of WMSD than those who have weekly practice. Those practicing walking, workout, and yoga showed lower prevalence of WMSD (OR = 0.377 & 0.323, p = 0.015, 0.010 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of WMSD among dental students in KSA was high. Males and those with prolonged clinical sessions were at greater risk of WMSD. There is a need for awareness campaigns to educate dental students about risk factors of WMSD. Collegesy, dental colleges should adopt policies in reducing WMSD among their students.

A Neural Networks Approach to Determine Factors Associated With Self-Reported Discomfort in Picking Tasks.

OBJECTIVE: A neural networks approach has been proposed to handle various inputs such as postural, anthropometric and environmental variables in order to estimate self-reported discomfort in picking tasks. An input reduction method has been proposed, reducing the input variables to the minimum data required to estimate self-reported discomfort with similar accuracy as the neural network fed with all variables. BACKGROUND: Previous works have attempted to explore the relationship between several factors and self-reported discomfort using observational methods. The results showed that this relationship was not a simple linear relationship. Another study used neural networks to model the function returning reported discomfort according to static posture, age, and anthropometrics variables. The results demonstrated the model's ability to predict reported discomfort. But all the available variables were used to design the neural network. METHOD: Eleven subjects carried-out picking tasks with various masses (0, 1, 3 kg) and imposed duration (5, 10, or 15 s). Continuous REBA score, anthropometric and environmental data were computed, and subjects' discomfort were collected. The data set of this work consisted in the computed continuous REBA score, anthropometric, environmental data and collected subjects' discomfort. RESULTS: The results showed that the correlation between the estimated and experimental tested data was equal to 0.775 when using all the 14 available variables. After data reduction, only 6 variables were left, with a very close performance when predicting discomfort. CONCLUSION: A neural network approach has been proposed to estimate self-reported discomfort according to a minimum set of postural, anthropometric and environmental variables in picking tasks. APPLICATION: This method has the potential to support ergonomists in workstation designing processes, by adding discomfort prediction to virtual manikins' behaviors in simulation tools.

Shoulder work-related musculoskeletal disorders and related factors of workers in 15 industries of China: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Changes in modern industrial production practices can easily lead to shoulder work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). The current reports on shoulder WMSD are limited to some industries are less well studied, and the sample size is usually small. This study aimed to describe the prevalence and severity of shoulder WMSD in a large sample of Chinese workers from 15 industries, analyze the possible correlations with sociodemographic and work-related variables, and compare the differences between industries. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 55,749 participants from 252 enterprises in 15 industries throughout China. A Chinese version of the musculoskeletal disease questionnaire was used to collect the demographic factors, shoulder symptoms in past 12 months, and work-related factors including posture-related factors, repetition, vibration, work organization, job control, and environmental factors as independent variables. Descriptive statistics were used, and the binary logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the association between shoulder WMSD and potential demographic and work-related factors. RESULTS: Nearly 35.5% of participants reported shoulder pain and discomfort in the previous 12 months. Biopharmaceutical manufacturing (56.2%), medical services (54.4%), and aviation services (50.1%) were the three industries with the highest prevalence of shoulder WMSD. The pain score of aviation services workers was the highest. The related factors for shoulder WMSD varied among the different industries. CONCLUSION: Our study found a relatively high prevalence of shoulder WMSD in China. There were large differences in the prevalence of shoulder WMSD among industries, and the related factors were particular to each industry. Such information is useful to help occupational health practitioners and policymakers conduct preventive programs to reduce shoulder disorders in these working populations.

Analysis of the Reduction of Ergonomic Risks through the Implementation of an Automatic Tape Packaging Machine.

Many industrial sectors still lack automation resources to optimize their production processes, aiming to make manufacturing leaner and offer better working conditions to operators. Without these improvements, workers can suffer physical and even psychological damage from the ergonomic risks of the activities performed. Thus, the aim of this paper is to present the ergonomic evaluation of packaging tapes workstation before and after the implementation of an automatic packaging machine, called Guzzetti. In the Guzzetti context, the paper shows the implementation of an electrical system based on controlling a mechanical device powered by servomotors and controlled by a PLC is necessary. For ergonomic evaluation, the paper presents the application of three methods: Suzanne Rodger, Strain Index, called Moore and Garg and REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment). With the results collection, was possible to obtain improvements in ergonomic risks that changed from the intermediate level to low level in all methods.

Course Design and Learning Outcomes of a Practical Online Ergonomics Course for Surgical Residents.

OBJECTIVE: Course content was designed and the learning outcomes assessed for an online ergonomics course for surgical residents. This course could fulfill an optional Surgical Council on Resident Education (SCORE) curriculum on Surgical Ergonomics. DESIGN: The online course included five 5-minute modules within the residents' learning system, each ending with an ungraded knowledge question, and a final 5-question multiple-choice retention quiz that allowed infinite attempts. The course was designed by ergonomists and surgeons at a quaternary academic hospital system. Participants were given two weeks to complete the modules. An electronic survey with questions assessing ergonomics knowledge and understanding on a 5-point Likert scale (strongly disagree - strongly agree) was distributed both before and after the course. The post-course survey included three additional questions to elicit feedback regarding learning experience and course design. Descriptive statistics and nonparametric paired comparisons were used to evaluate learning outcomes. SETTING: General surgery residency program at an academic medical center in the U.S. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-two general surgery post graduate year 1 residents (PGY1s) were recruited to participate and completed the pre-course survey. Eight out of the 22 participants (36%) completed the online course and quiz; seven (32%) completed the course, quiz, and the post-course survey. RESULTS: Participants had high pre-course awareness of the importance of surgical ergonomics, benefits of work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) prevention, as well as awkward intraoperative postures being an WMSD risk factor. Participants' confidence increased significantly from pre- to post-course in ability to assess risk (p = 0.021), but not in ability or willingness to mitigate risky surgical postures. Participants who completed the quiz answered a median of 4 (IQR: [4, 5]) questions correctly. All participants indicated that they would recommend this course to other residents. CONCLUSIONS: These short practical ergonomics online learning modules increased surgical residents' confidence in assessing surgical WMSD risks.

Occupational physical risk factors and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among the traditional lacquerware toy makers of South India.

BACKGROUND: The majority of handicraft workers in India falls under the informal sector, which plays a prominent role in the employment generation. Artisans in handicraft sectors encounter various hazards and risks causing occupational diseases. OBJECTIVE: The key objective of the study is to identify the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and occupational risk factors among the artisans involved in making traditional lacquerware toys in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, South India. METHODS: The subjects considered in this study are 177 artisans who work in mechanized lathes at Channapatna of Karnataka and Etikoppaka of Andhra Pradesh, South India. The information regarding the reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) symptoms from 7 days to 12 months are collected through modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and by direct observations. Moreover, the intervention of WMSD in their day-to-day life and the overall comfort of their body are also determined. The questionnaire survey is conducted through face-to-face interviews and by direct field study. RESULTS: From the statistical analysis, it is found that about 76.83%of the study population (77.4%male and 74.28%female) has self-reported WMSDs. The prevalence of WMSD is most common in the age group of 30-40 years. Physical factors like workplace adaptability, stress at work, body postures, health status, body mass index, active and enough breaks during work and body condition at the end of work have a significant association with WMSD. CONCLUSION: In this study, many of the work-related and lifestyle/health-related factors show a significant association with WMSD in artisans. The sub-standard working environment and the nature of work expose artisans to many occupational risks in their day-to-day life. To mitigate the occupational risks and musculoskeletal disorders, the workspace needs to be redesigned ergonomically.

Musculoskeletal Disorders among Italian Dentists and Dental Hygienists.

Dental professionals often perform physically and mentally demanding therapeutical procedures. They work maintaining muscular imbalance and asymmetrical positions for a long time. The aim of the study was to describe the prevalence and the factors associated to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) among Italian dental professionals and the most affected body regions. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between March 2019 and February 2020. The Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaire (NMQ) was implemented with questions related to working habits (dental occupation, working hours per week and per days, years of work) and lifestyle (practiced physical activity, including frequency and duration, mobilization activities, and knowledge of ergonomic guidelines) was used. The-chi square test was carried out to detect any statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Logistic regression was carried out to detect the most significant factors associated to WMSD occurrence. A total of 284 questionnaires have been used for the analysis. A high proportion of dental professionals (84.6%) were affected by WMSD in the last 12 months. A higher prevalence was found in females (87%) when compared to males (80%). The prevalence of WMSD was correlated to the working hours/day and hour/week, with a higher risk for operators working >5 h/day and >30 h/week. In addition, a high prevalence was found in operators working for 2-5 years after graduation. Most of the surveyed dental professionals practiced physical activity (70.1%) but only a few had satisfactorily knowledge of ergonomic guidelines (12.7%). Interestingly, participants who practiced yoga or stretching as physical activities demonstrated lower WMSD (77%) when compared to other physical activities (84%). We can highlight that generic physical activities have no functional effect on WMSD for dental professionals. The most affected body areas were neck (59.9%), shoulders (43.3%), lumbar region (52.1%), dorsal region (37.7%) and wrists (30.6%). Considering the magnitude of the problem, there is an urgent need to implement the education in ergonomics among dental professionals, that may be achieved by teaching biomechanics, posturology and integrative functional therapies (such as yoga) during the university education and by promoting holistic health of dental operators.

Analysis of the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and occupational stress in professors of a higher education institution in the state of Pernambuco.

INTRODUCTION: The consequences of technological innovations and current ways of work organization have prompted the appearance of various health conditions, namely repetitive strain disorders, work-related musculoskeletal disorders, and burn-out; these can emotionally and physically overload workers. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and occupational stress in professors of the Serra Talhada campus of Instituto Federal do Sertão Pernambucano. METHODS: Participants signed a free and informed consent form and answered to the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Subsequently, we applied the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey and evaluated the participants' postures during teaching by using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment tool (Ergolândia software). RESULTS: We observed that 82% of the participants presented musculoskeletal symptoms, mainly in the lower back and lower limbs. Professors presented high scores for the burn-out syndrome, and posture evaluation indicated action levels of 3-4 (suggesting immediate intervention). CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of an occupational physical therapist in this higher education institution is recommended in order to promote ergonomic adaptations and to elaborate a protocol for workplace physical activity, ultimately aiming to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and occupational stress.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Medical Practitioners in the Hospitals of Al'Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia .

Introduction Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have a significant impact on the workplace; they have been growing as a problem in our population, especially among healthcare practitioners. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of the condition, evaluate the WMSDs experienced by practitioners in different specialties in different hospitals in the Al'Qassim region, and study various risk factors that contribute to the development of WMSDs. Methods After gaining the Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, a cross-sectional study was conducted among all medical care practitioners at hospitals in the Al'Qassim region. Data were collected using a validated, standardized, and self-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the SAS software version 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). Results  The study result revealed that out of 382 participants, just over half (209, 54.7%) experienced WMSDs. Among them, 103 (27.54%) were males, and 271 (72.54%) were females. The average age of participants was 31.25 ±6.82 years. Participants with experience of 6-10 years were twice as likely to develop WMSDs compared to participants with fewer years of experience [odds ratio (OR): 2.342; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.062-5.168; p = 0.0350]. There was no significant difference in terms of past medical history between the two groups except for the history of having low back pain, which was more common in participants with WMSDs (77.59% versus 22.41%; p: <0.0001), and neck pain (74.19% versus 25.81%; p = 0.0003). Almost all job risk factors varied significantly between the groups (p: <0.05). Prevalent risk factors included performing the same task over and over again (134, 37.96%), treating an excessive number of patients in one day (127, 35.88%), and working in the same positions (126, 35.8%). Conclusions Based on this study findings, we can conclude that WMSDs affect a high proportion of healthcare professionals; the female gender and more than six years of experience were found to be major predictors for WMSDs. Pain in the lower back, shoulders, and neck were the most frequently reported musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs). Hence, we recommend the incorporation of musculoskeletal disorder prevention programs in the hospitals' educational programs as they will reduce the rate of WMSDs and ensure the health and well-being of healthcare practitioners.

Prevalence of work related musculoskeletal disorders among occupational bus drivers of Karnataka, South India.

BACKGROUND: Work-related health problems result in an economic loss of 4-6% in GDP (Gross domestic Product) of the most countries. In the industrialized countries, 1/3rd of the health-related absence to duty are due to musculoskeletal disorders. Professional driving is one such occupation which looks like sedentary occupation, but involves many risk factors that contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) due to its nature of working and work environment. This research describes the various risk factors associated with WMSDs and their effects on drivers health. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of WMSD and its associated risk factors among the bus drivers of Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Karnataka. METHODS: Subjects considered in this study are 301 full-time bus drivers from the central division KSRTC which consists of 6 depots in Bengaluru. Information regarding reported WMSD symptoms during immediate past 7 days to 12 months, the intervention of WMSD in their day-to-day life and the overall comfort of the body are determined through Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and also by direct observation. The survey questionnaire is conducted by face to face interview. FINDINGS: From the statistical analysis, it is found that around 55.8% of the study population has experienced WMSD. The prevalence of WMSD is most common in the age group of 29-39 years (53.5%) followed by the age group of >40 years. CONCLUSION: In this study, some of the work-related and lifestyle/health-related factors show significant association with WMSD in bus drivers of Karnataka. Musculoskeletal disorders can be prevented by designing the driver's workspace ergonomically so that the design suits to all sorts of drivers and the drivers should also be trained on basics of vehicle ergonomics (posture, seat adjustments, in-vehicle controls adjustments). INTERPRETATION: KSRTC should educate drivers on the basics of vehicle ergonomics, harmful use of tobacco/alcohol, unhealthy food habits and also to involve in physical exercise at least 75-150 mins weekly. If not, the trend of drivers suffering from WMSD belonging to mid-age will increase exponentially. SCOPE FOR FUTURE WORK: Statistical result and direct observation insist on undertaking further studies on ergonomic interventions at driver's cabin, lifestyle/occupational health factors which mitigate WMSD in different parts of the body during driving.

A prevalência de lesões musculoesqueléticas em funcionários de empresas de funilaria automotiva em Teresina-PI / The prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries in employees of automotive functional companies in Teresina-PI

Os distúrbios osteomusculares relacionados ao trabalho são um conjunto de afecções comumente ligadas ao trabalho e podem ocorrer de forma combinada ou não ao uso repetido e forçado de grupos musculares e à manutenção de posturas inadequadas. Sua incidência vem aumentando gradativamente a cada ano, devido à influência de diversos fatores. OBJETIVOS: Identificar a prevalência de lesões musculoesqueléticas em funcionários de empresas automotivas. METODOLOGIA: Este estudo foi do quantitativo e qualitativo. Participaram da pesquisa 23 voluntários, os quais foram analisados por meio de uma avaliação física e socioeconômica, além de ser aplicado o Questionário Nórdico de Sintomas Osteomusculares. Os participantes foram observados durante a execução de suas atividades no seu ambiente de trabalho, onde foram analisadas as manutenções e compensações posturais e os principais movimentos durante as atividades. RESULTADOS: O estudo evidenciou dentre os participantes predomínio do sexo masculino, foi apresentada a distribuição da amostra em relação a faixa etária, escolaridade, tempo de serviço, função que exerce, percepção de esforço, além de relatar a existência de dor durante e/ou após ao horário de trabalho. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados apontaram para a região da coluna lombar como sendo a de maior intensidade de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos relacionados ao trabalho entre o grupo de trabalhadores pesquisados. Foi observado que não há uma relação linear entre sintomas osteomusculares, avaliação hemodinâmica, idade e tempo de serviço. Por outro lado, a baixa escolarização esteve associada com o aumento da probabilidade de diagnóstico.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a set of common conditions that can affect the combined form or not use repeated and forced repeated and forced muscle groups and the maintenance of inappropriate postures. Its incidence gradually arrives each year, due to the influence of several factors. OBJECTIVES: To identify the prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries in employees of automotive companies. METHODOLOGY: This study was quantitative and qualitative. 23 volunteers participated in the research, which were analyzed by means of a physical and socioeconomic evaluation, in addition to being applied or the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Participants were observed during the performance of their activities in their work environment, where they were analyzed as postural maintenance and compensation and the main movements during activities. RESULTS: The study showed among the participants with a predominance of male gender, who received a distribution of the sample in relation to age group, education, length of service, functions they exercise, perception of effort, in addition to relating a variable of pain during and/or after working hours. CONCLUSION: The results pointed to a region of the lumbar spine as being the highest intensity of work-related skeletal muscle disorders among the group of workers surveyed. It was observed that there is no linear relationship between musculoskeletal symptoms, hemodynamic assessment, age and length of service. On the other hand, low schooling was associated with an increased probability of diagnosis.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office Workers in Higher Education Institutions: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) currently pose a challenge to public health and elicit considerable financial, physical and social problems for workers. There is a need to attain a deeper understanding of this predicament among office workers, in order to tackle it successfully. This study sought to investigate the prevalence of WMSDs among office workers in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) as well as discover its associations with their personal/work details and reported risk factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was executed among 217 office workers in different HEIs, who filled self-report questionnaires on WMSDs. Data were analyzed via descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: The overall prevalence rate of WMSDs was 71.9% among these staff. The lower back, wrists/hands and shoulders were the most reported body regions for these disorders. WMSD prevalence had significant associations with sex (p = 0.004), age (p = 0.028), working hours (p = 0.003) and work experience (p = 0.014). There were significant positive relationships (p < 0.05) between WMSD prevalence and these risk factors: awkward posture, sustained body position, improper bending, workplace stress, inappropriate furniture and inadequate rest breaks. CONCLUSION: Most of the study participants were affected with WMSDs, which were primarily reported in the back and upper extremities. Office workers who were older, female, more experienced and work for longer hours, displayed higher risks for these disorders and should be given special attention. Several factors reported by these HEI staff were revealed to significantly influence WMSD prevalence, emphasizing the need for their effective detection and curtailment.

Are Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Claims Related to Risk Factors in Workplaces of the Manufacturing Industry?

OBJECTIVES: Varied work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) claim rates were found between companies even when they were in the same sectors with similar sizes. This study aimed to (i) identify common risk factors for back, shoulder, hand/wrist, and knee WMSDs among manufacturing jobs, and (ii) characterize the biomechanical exposures in jobs and work organizational practices between high and low WMSD claim rate companies so that more focused, industry-specific intervention strategies may be developed. METHODS: Using historical workers' compensation data, manufacturing companies were divided into two paired groups (low and high in the lower 25%ile and higher 75%ile, respectively). On-site job evaluations were conducted in 16 companies to determine job biomechanical risk levels. Management and workers' representatives in 32 paired companies were interviewed to identify possible differences between management strategies and management/worker relationships. A total of 39 injured workers were also interviewed to gather information of self-reported injury causes and suggested preventive measures. RESULTS: Analyses of 432 job evaluations showed that more jobs had higher risk levels of prolonged standing and heavy lifting in the high back WMSD claim rate companies than the low claim rate ones. No high biomechanical risk factors were found to be associated with jobs in high shoulder claim rate companies. High repetition, pinch force, and Strain Index were associated with high hand/wrist WMSD claim rate companies. High work pace and job stress were common among high knee WMSD claim rate companies. There were no statistically significant differences for the organizational factors between high and low WMSD claim rate companies. Heavy lifting, fast work pace, high hand/wrist repetition, high hand force, and awkward shoulder postures were identified as major contributing factors by the injured workers. CONCLUSIONS: High WMSD claim rate companies appeared to have more high biomechanical exposure jobs than low WMSD claim rate companies. Available job evaluation methods for the low back and hand/wrists are satisfactory in quantifying job risk levels in the manufacturing industry. Research into more sensitive job evaluation methods for the shoulder and knee are needed.

Ergonomic Engineering Intervention Of Batik Stamping Work To Reduce Lifting Load

@#One of the common health problems for small and medium enterprise such as batik production is work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD). This health problem may contribute to long-term medical effect on the production workers. For batik stamping workers, the load of the copper block that need to be used repetitively can reach up to 2kg. This study aims to reduce WMSD effect by reducing the lifting load of the cooper block handled by the batik stamping worker. The worker’s working load is observed before the intervention process by using one of the ergonomic risk assessment tools, Rapid Upper Limb Asssessment (RULA). The ergonomic intervention designed in this study is from the engineering approach by modifying tools. It is found out that the intervention done were able to eliminate the lifting load handled by the worker to avoid discomfort or further health complication. This outcome are hoped to be able to improve workers’ health and increase batik stamping work productivity that eventually increased company’s revenue.

Modelo lógico de um programa de retorno ao trabalho: instrumento orientador para prevenir a incapacidade / Logical model of a return to work program: guiding tool to prevent disability

Resumo Introdução: organizar e avaliar Programas de Retorno ao Trabalho (PRT) de indivíduos afastados por incapacidade, decorrente de lesões sofridas no ambiente laboral, é de grande importância para o Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Objetivo: construir o Modelo Lógico do PRT desenvolvido pelo Centro Estadual de Referência em Saúde do Trabalhador da Bahia (Cesat/Bahia) como uma das etapas iniciais do processo de avaliação da sua implantação. Método: estudo de caso único, integrado e retrospectivo, visando a elaboração de Modelo Lógico baseado em roteiro formulado pelo Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada (Ipea) para avaliação de programas. Resultados: o Modelo Lógico final do PRT-Cesat/Bahia foi construído em três dimensões operacionais -indivíduo (trabalhador), ambiente de trabalho e atores sociais -, permitindo que a equipe coordenadora refletisse sobre as várias etapas do processo e sobre o impacto e a utilidade do programa para a população. Conclusão: o Modelo Lógico possibilita aos profissionais de saúde, pesquisadores, trabalhadores e demais atores sociais debater o conteúdo, princípios, recursos e teorias para implantação, replicação e avaliação de PRT.

Abstract Introduction: it is of great importance for the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) to organize and evaluate Return to Work programs for workers in disability leave due to injuries suffered in the work environment. Objective: to construct the Logical Model of the Return to Work program developed by the Bahia State Worker's Health Reference Center (Cesat/Bahia) as one of the initial stages for the evaluation of its implantation process. Method: a single, integrated and retrospective case study, aiming at elaborating a Logical Model based on a script formulated by the Institute for Applied Economic Research (Ipea). Results: the Cesat/Bahia Logical Model of Return to Work program was constructed in three operational dimensions - individual (worker), work environment and social actors -, allowing the coordinating team to reflect on its process stages as well as on the program impact and utility for the population. Conclusion: the Logical Model enables health professionals, researchers, workers and other social actors to discuss the content, principles, resources and theories for the implementation, propagation and evaluation of the Return to Work program.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among Greek hospital nursing professionals: A cross-sectional observational study.

BACKGROUND: The serious shortages of nurses are related to increased risk for musculoskeletal disorders during work. The complexity of patient care places nurses at high-risk for injury and high in the list of occupations with risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). OBJECTIVE: The current study evaluated the association of personal, professional and health factors with the development of WMSD in the nursing staff of hospitals in the capital of Greece. METHODS: The study was conducted online with 394 nurses (age: 37.85±7.48 years (mean±SD), 19.54% male and 80.46% female) using a questionnaire based on the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and comparatively examined WMSD across nurses. RESULTS: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in general was 98%, with symptoms reported for the waist (85.3%), neck (71.2%) and back (70.7%). The risk for WMSD was higher for specific RN groups: female nurses had higher risk than males (p-value = 0.000 to 0.022), RNs with 11-20 years of work experience (p-value = 0.008) had higher risk than their younger colleagues, RNs that strain their waist, lift loads, etc faced higher risks (p-value = 0.000 to 0.043). Shift work, age and the body mass index also lead to increased risk. CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicated that Greek nurses suffer more frequently from WMSD in comparison to their colleagues internationally and this must alert hospital managers and the Greek National Health System to develop a prevention policy for WMSD in Greek hospitals.

Bringing a structural perspective to work: Framing occupational safety and health disparities for nursing assistants with work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

BACKGROUND: Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) experience a high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and are further made vulnerable by their situation in low levels of workplace and societal hierarchies of power and privilege. OBJECTIVE: This study applies structural vulnerability theory to CNA WMSD experiences in order to identify structural factors that may influence such injuries. METHODS: A sample of CNAs (n = 26) working in Nursing and Residential Care Facilities (NRCFs) was selected from workers who filed a claim during 2011-2014 for a WMSD of the back, shoulder, knee, or hand/wrist in the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries workers' compensation system. Interviews included questions about workers' injury experiences and work contexts. Qualitative data was analyzed for themes related to structural vulnerability theory and occupational safety and health (OSH) models. RESULTS: Themes illustrate a work environment in NRCFs with major organizational deficiencies for CNA safety and a broader structural environment that appears to mediate them. CNAs described policies and practices that result from management priorities being diverted away from worker safety. These difficulties are compounded by several aspects of CNAs' socio-economic vulnerability. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the utility of a structural perspective for OSH disparities research and points to the need for occupational health intervention on a structural level.

Os Sintomas de LER/DORT: um Estudo Comparativo entre Bancários com e sem Diagnóstico / The Symptoms of RSI/WMSD: a Comparative Study among Bahia's Banks Clerk with and without Diagnosis / Los Síntomas de RSI/WMSD: un estudio comparativo entre empleados de bancos de Bahia con y sin diagnóstico

As Lesões por Esforço Repetitivo/Distúrbios Osteomusculares Relacionados ao Trabalho (LER/DORT) são uma síndrome cujo diagnóstico é complexo. O objetivo deste artigo foi comparar os sintomas osteomusculares entre os bancários que afirmaram já terem sido diagnosticados por LER/DORT com aqueles que afirmaram nunca terem sido diagnosticados por algum médico, analisando as diferenças com relação aos fatores sociodemográficos. Participaram da pesquisa 220 bancários do estado da Bahia, dos quais, 91 apresentaram apenas sintomas osteomusculares e outros 91, além dos sintomas, também relataram o diagnóstico de LER/DORT. Apenas 38 não relataram qualquer distúrbio osteomuscular. Os que possuem diagnóstico de LER/DORT são os que mais sentem sintomas osteomusculares. Com maior média de idade, menor escolaridade e maior predominância do sexo feminino, os diagnosticados apresentaram sintomas de DORT há mais tempo, mais severos e com maior frequência. Este artigo contribui para a descrição da sintomatologia do fenômeno LER/DORT...(AU)

Repetitive Strain Injuries / Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (RSI / WMSD) are a syndrome whose diagnosis is complex. This paper aims at comparing the musculoskeletal symptoms among the bank clerks that reported having been diagnosed by RSI / WMSDs, with those who have never been diagnosed by a doctor, analyzing the differences concerning sociodemographic factors. The participants were 220 bank clerks of the State of Bahia-Brazil, of which only 91 had shown musculoskeletal symptoms and other 91 who, in addition to the symptoms, also reported the diagnosis of RSI / WMSDs. Only 38 did not report any musculoskeletal disorder. Those with a diagnosis of RSI / WMSDs are the ones who experienced more musculoskeletal symptoms. As the age average goes higher combined with lower educational levels and leading prevalence of females, those who were diagnosed had symptoms of WMSDs for longer; severely and more often. This article contributes to describe the symptoms of the RSI / WMSDs phenomenon....(AU)

Las lesiones por esfuerzo repetitivo / trastornos musculoesqueléticos relacionados con el trabajo (RSI/WMSD) son un síndrome cuyo diagnóstico es complejo y controvertido. El objetivo de este trabajo fue comparar los síntomas musculoesqueléticos entre empleados de bancos que reportaron haber sido diagnosticados con RSI/WMSD, con otros que nunca habían sido diagnosticados, analizando las diferencias en relación con los factores sociodemográficos. Los participantes fueron 220 empleados de bancos del Estado de Bahia, de los cuales solo 91 tenían síntomas musculoesqueléticos y los otros 91 que, además de los síntomas, tenían un diagnóstico de RSI/WMSD. Solo 38 no informaron ningún trastorno musculoesquelético. Aquellos que tienen un diagnóstico de RSI/WMSD son los que más sientieron los síntomas musculoesqueléticos. Con una mayor edad media, niveles educativos más bajos y una mayor prevalencia del sexo femenino, los diagnosticados presentan síntomas de trastornos musculoesqueléticos durante más tiempo, más graves y más frecuentes. Este artículo contribuye a la descripción de los síntomas del fenómeno RSI/WMSD y abre el camino para formular instrumentos de medición más precisos y estandarizados....(AU)

Postural risk assessment of mechanised firewood processing.

The study assessed the postural risk of mechanised firewood processing with eight machines, representing the main technology solutions available on the market. Assessment was conducted with the Ovako Working posture Analysis System (OWAS) on 1000 still frames randomly extracted from videotaped work samples. The postural risk associated with firewood processing was variable and associated with technology type. Simple, manually operated new machines incurred a higher postural risk compared with semi- or fully automatic machines. In contrast, new semi-automatic and automatic machines were generally free from postural risk. In all cases, attention should be paid to postural risk that may occur during blockage resolution. The study did not cover the postural risk of firewood processing sites as a whole. The study provided useful information for selecting firewood processing machinery and for improving firewood machinery design, as part of a more articulate strategy aimed at enhancing the safety of firewood processing work sites. Practitioner Summary: The postural risk associated with mechanised firewood processing (eg cutting and splitting) depends on the type of equipment. Postural risk is highest (OWAS Action Category 2) with new in-line machines, designed for operation by a single worker. Fully automatic machines present minimum postural risk, except during blockage resolution.