International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Editorial

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4 pages, 257 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health

by Kapo Wong and Alan Hoi Shou Chan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(12), 2897; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15122897 - 18 Dec 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4508

Abstract

Working environments have various risks, which result in accidents and casualties. [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

Research

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24 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Patient and Occupational Safety Culture in Hospitals: Development of a Questionnaire with Comparable Dimensions and Results of a Feasibility Study in a German University Hospital

by Anke Wagner, Martina Michaelis, Edwin Luntz, Andrea Wittich, Matthias Schrappe, Constanze Lessing and Monika A. Rieger

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(12), 2625; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15122625 - 23 Nov 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4841

Abstract

(1) Background: Both patient and occupational safety cultures should be considered when promoting safety culture. To our knowledge, there are no studies that capture patient safety culture (PSC) and occupational safety culture (OSC) in hospitals while using a common questionnaire. The aim of [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Both patient and occupational safety cultures should be considered when promoting safety culture. To our knowledge, there are no studies that capture patient safety culture (PSC) and occupational safety culture (OSC) in hospitals while using a common questionnaire. The aim of this feasibility study in a German university hospital was to develop a questionnaire to assess both issues analogously. In addition to feasibility outcomes, we report results of PSC-OSC comparisons. (2) Methods: To assess PSC, we used the existing Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSPSC) questionnaire. Developing new OSC “twin items” for certain parts of the HSPSC was supported by a previous literature review. Additionally, we developed multiple choice questions to examine knowledge and competencies regarding specific PS/OS aspects. (3) Results: Developing and implementing a combined PSC and OSC assessment instrument was feasible. The overall response rate was 33% (407 nurses, 140 physicians). In general, the statistical reliability of almost all scales was sufficient. Positive PSC perceptions (agreement rates 46–87%) were found in 16 out of 18 scales. Of the four twin scales, the PSC values were significantly better. Individual PS- and OS-related knowledge and competencies were lower than expected. (4) Conclusion: The comparative investigation of patient and occupational safety in a large hospital is a promising approach and can be recommended for further studies. We used our experiences that are presented here in an ongoing bicentric study on the associations between working conditions, occupational safety culture, patient safety culture, and patient safety outcomes (WorkSafeMed). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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12 pages, 1274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodological Challenges in the Economic Evaluation of Occupational Health and Safety Programmes

by Jonas Steel, Lode Godderis and Jeroen Luyten

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(11), 2606; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15112606 - 21 Nov 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7253

Abstract

An emerging issue in occupational health and safety (OHS) is that interventions increasingly have to demonstrate that they offer sufficient value for money. To this end, the last decennia have seen more and more economic evaluation methods being employed in this field. However, [...] Read more.

An emerging issue in occupational health and safety (OHS) is that interventions increasingly have to demonstrate that they offer sufficient value for money. To this end, the last decennia have seen more and more economic evaluation methods being employed in this field. However, several recent publications have indicated that many of the published studies suffer from important shortcomings. This paper aims to highlight difficulties in assessing the value of OHS by use of current economic evaluation methods. First, a summary framework presents an overview of the costs and benefits relevant for OHS interventions. Next, three elements from this framework are selected that are at the same time crucial to OHS value, but also challenging to measure and monetise: Effects on worker productivity, ‘intangible’ benefits, such as reputation effects, and the influence of the broader legal–fiscal context in which an intervention takes place. The following sections then discuss the following research questions for each of these elements: Why is it difficult to exclude these factors from OHS economic evaluations? Why do they pose a challenge to the quality of economic evaluations in OHS? How can they be included, and what are the known advantages and disadvantages of the methods to measure these factors? Future work should investigate (and standardise) better methods to include these elements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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14 pages, 2956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Preferred Application-Oriented Index for Mental Fatigue Detection

by Tianhong Duan, Nong Zhang, Kaiway Li, Xuelin Hou and Jun Pei

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(11), 2555; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15112555 - 14 Nov 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3663

Abstract

Most of the research on mental fatigue evaluation has mainly concentrated on some indexes that require sophisticated and large instruments that make the detection of mental fatigue cumbersome, time-consuming, and difficult to apply on a large scale. A quick and sensitive mental fatigue [...] Read more.

Most of the research on mental fatigue evaluation has mainly concentrated on some indexes that require sophisticated and large instruments that make the detection of mental fatigue cumbersome, time-consuming, and difficult to apply on a large scale. A quick and sensitive mental fatigue detection index is necessary so that mentally fatigued workers can be alerted in time and take corresponding countermeasures. However, to date, no studies have compared the sensitivity of common objective evaluation indexes. To solve these problems, this study recruited 56 human subjects. These subjects were evaluated using six fatigue indexes: the Stanford sleepiness scale, digital span, digital decoding, short-term memory, critical flicker fusion frequency (CFF), and speed perception deviation. The results of the fatigue tests before and after mental fatigue were compared, and a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed on the speed perception deviation. The results indicated the significance of this index. Considering individual differences, the relative fatigue index (RFI) was proposed to compare the sensitivity of the indexes. The results showed that when the self-rated fatigue grade changed from non-fatigue to mild fatigue, the ranges of RFI values for digital span, digital decoding, short-term memory, and CFF were 0.175–0.258, 0.194–0.316, 0.068–0.139, and 0.055–0.075, respectively. Correspondingly, when the self-rated fatigue grade changed to severe fatigue, the ranges of RFI values for the above indexes were 0.415–0.577, 0.482–0.669, 0.329–0.396, and 0.114–0.218, respectively. These results suggest that the sensitivity of the digital decoding, digital span, short-term memory, and CFF decreased sequentially when the self-evaluated fatigue grade changed from no fatigue to mild or severe fatigue. The RFI individuality of the speed perception deviation is highly variable and is not suitable as an evaluation index. In mental fatigue testing, digital decoding testing can provide faster, more convenient, and more accurate results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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12 pages, 326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Teamwork and Safety Climate in Homecare: A Mixed Method Study

by Agneta Larsson, Mats Westerberg, Lena Karlqvist and Gunvor Gard

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(11), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15112495 - 8 Nov 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3912

Abstract

A rapidly changing homecare service sector implies difficulties to control safety and health risks for staff and to guarantee standardised deliveries of services to recipients. This study aimed to describe staff perceptions of safety climate and practices in homecare service teams, and suggestions [...] Read more.

A rapidly changing homecare service sector implies difficulties to control safety and health risks for staff and to guarantee standardised deliveries of services to recipients. This study aimed to describe staff perceptions of safety climate and practices in homecare service teams, and suggestions for improvements. A second aim was to identify if and how the appraisals of safety climate were related to individual perceptions of safety, mental strain and adverse events/injury. A convergent parallel mixed methods design was used. Nursing assistants and care aides (133 in total, representing 11 work teams) in the north of Sweden replied to a survey and participated in focus group interviews. Results were analysed with ANOVA (inter-team differences) and by qualitative content analysis. Significant diversity was identified between the teams in five of seven dimensions of safety climate. Important areas for improvement were: a need to define and agree on criteria for a safe working environment; leadership prioritising safety at work; and management able to provide trust, support and time. A prerequisite for these agreements was improved authority and communication between all parties involved. The safety climate dimensions were related to personal perceptions of safety and mental strain and, partly, to adverse events/injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

12 pages, 308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Construction Workers Job Stress Scale to Study and the Relationship between Job Stress and Safety Behavior: An Empirical Study in Beijing

by Xiang Wu, Yuanlong Li, Yongzheng Yao, Xiaowei Luo, Xuhui He and Wenwen Yin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(11), 2409; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15112409 - 30 Oct 2018

Cited by 71 | Viewed by 10272

Abstract

Job stress is considered one of the critical causes of construction workers’ unsafe behaviors. As a mainstay industry in many countries, the construction industry has a considerable number of employees and the research on how job stress affects workers’ unsafe behaviors has important [...] Read more.

Job stress is considered one of the critical causes of construction workers’ unsafe behaviors. As a mainstay industry in many countries, the construction industry has a considerable number of employees and the research on how job stress affects workers’ unsafe behaviors has important theoretical and practical significance to improve construction safety performance through better job stress management. In this study, the authors thoroughly reviewed the literature and conducted semi-structured interviews to identify the dimensions of job stress, designed the job stress scale and cited the safety behavior measurement scale. After that, a questionnaire survey was developed using the proposed measurement scale and distributed to the construction employees from a project in Beijing. One hundred fifty responses were collected and analyzed using reliability analysis to validate the scale’s internal consistency. Results from factor analysis indicate that the scales of job stress measurement can be grouped into six dimensions. To demonstrate the applicability of the developed scale on construction safety management research, the collected data was used to test the hypothesis that job stress has a negative correlation with safety behavior. Results show that the hypothesis is valid, and there is a negative correlation between job stress and safety behavior. In addition, finer results of the relationship between the six dimensions of job stress and safety behavior can be obtained. In summary, this study developed an improved stress scale for construction workers in China, and the proposed scale was validated by analyzing the data from an empirical study in Beijing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

11 pages, 295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Risk-Taking Propensity of Construction Workers—An Application of Quasi-Expert Interview

by Banus Kam Leung Low, Siu Shing Man and Alan Hoi Shou Chan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(10), 2250; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15102250 - 15 Oct 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4792

Abstract

High accident rates have been a complicated and persistent problem in the Hong Kong construction industry. This situation has stimulated this investigation into factors that influence the risk-taking propensity of construction workers. However, interviewing workers who had a bad experience is problematic because [...] Read more.

High accident rates have been a complicated and persistent problem in the Hong Kong construction industry. This situation has stimulated this investigation into factors that influence the risk-taking propensity of construction workers. However, interviewing workers who had a bad experience is problematic because changes in attitude and perception may occur as a result of such an experience. Using quasi-expert interviews can reduce this problem. The objective of this study was to identify factors that influence the risk-taking propensity of construction workers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 safety professionals all with accident inspection experience and six super-safe workers with no incident record for the past five years. Seven factors that affect the risk-taking propensity of construction workers were successfully identified. Each factor is thoughtfully discussed, and this study shows that quasi-expert interview is a pragmatic approach for deepening the understanding of risk-taking propensity among construction workers. Findings of this study will hopefully help and encourage further quantitative research on the risk-taking propensity of construction workers with different perspectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

17 pages, 2120 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Safety-Related Opinion Leaders among Construction Workers: Evidence from Scaffolders of Metro Construction in Wuhan, China

by Chaohua Xiong, Kongzheng Liang, HanBin Luo and Ivan W. H. Fung

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(10), 2176; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15102176 - 4 Oct 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5685

Abstract

This study aimed to reveal opinion leaders who could impact their coworkers’ safety-related performance in Chinese construction teams. Questionnaires were distributed to 586 scaffolders in Wuhan to understand their opinions about influencing their coworkers, serving as the foundation for a social network analysis [...] Read more.

This study aimed to reveal opinion leaders who could impact their coworkers’ safety-related performance in Chinese construction teams. Questionnaires were distributed to 586 scaffolders in Wuhan to understand their opinions about influencing their coworkers, serving as the foundation for a social network analysis to identify the potential opinion leaders among workers. A further controlled trial with the identified workers was conducted to select real opinion leaders by comparing their influence on others’ safety-related behavior, followed by an association analysis to profile these opinion leaders. Two main sources of opinion leaders were identified: foremen and seasoned workers. Implementing interventions through opinion leaders resulted in better safety-related behavior performance. Furthermore, compared with education level, the association analysis results indicated that one’s practical skills and familiarity with respondents was more important in the formulation of opinion leaders. This research introduces the concept of opinion leaders into construction safety and proposes an approach to identify and validate opinion leaders within a crew, thus providing a tool to improve behavior promotion on sites, as well as a new perspective for viewing interactions among workers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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12 pages, 1037 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of “2·28” KEEPER Chemical Industries Hazardous Chemical Explosion Accident Based on FTA and HFACS

by Wei Jiang and Wei Han

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(10), 2151; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15102151 - 30 Sep 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5069

Abstract

On 28 February 2012, a guanidine nitrate explosion occurred at HEBEI KEEPER Chemical Industries Co., Ltd., China, resulting in 25 deaths, with 4 missing individuals and 46 injured. In order to explore the causal relationship hidden behind this accident, fault tree analysis (FTA) [...] Read more.

On 28 February 2012, a guanidine nitrate explosion occurred at HEBEI KEEPER Chemical Industries Co., Ltd., China, resulting in 25 deaths, with 4 missing individuals and 46 injured. In order to explore the causal relationship hidden behind this accident, fault tree analysis (FTA) and the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) were used to systematically analyze the incident. Firstly, FTA was used to analyze the causes of the accident in depth, until all the basic causal events causing the guanidine nitrate explosion were identified, and a fault tree diagram of the guanidine nitrate explosion was drawn. Secondly, for the unsafe acts in the basic causal events, the HFACS model was used to analyze the three levels of factors that lead to unsafe acts, including the preconditions for unsafe acts, unsafe supervision, and organizational influences. Finally, based on the analysis results of FTA and HFACS, a complete logic diagram of the causes of the accident was obtained. The FTA and HFACS accident analysis methods allowed for the identification of human factors and the accident evolution process in the explosion accident and provide a reference for accident investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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18 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Occupational and Patient Safety Culture in Hospitals Share Predictors in the Field of Psychosocial Working Conditions? Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study in German University Hospitals

by Anke Wagner, Antje Hammer, Tanja Manser, Peter Martus, Heidrun Sturm and Monika A. Rieger

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(10), 2131; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15102131 - 27 Sep 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6336

Abstract

Background: In the healthcare sector, a comprehensive safety culture includes both patient care-related and occupational aspects. In recent years, healthcare studies have demonstrated diverse relationships between aspects of psychosocial working conditions, occupational, and patient safety culture. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.

Background: In the healthcare sector, a comprehensive safety culture includes both patient care-related and occupational aspects. In recent years, healthcare studies have demonstrated diverse relationships between aspects of psychosocial working conditions, occupational, and patient safety culture. The aim of this study was to consider and test relevant predictors for staff’s perceptions of occupational and patient safety cultures in hospitals and whether there are shared predictors. From two German university hospitals, 381 physicians and 567 nurses completed a questionnaire on psychosocial working conditions, occupational, and patient safety culture. Two regression models with predictors for occupational and patient safety culture were conceptually developed and empirically tested. In the Occupational Safety Culture model, job satisfaction (β = 0.26, p ≤ 0.001), work‒privacy conflict (β = −0.19, p ≤ 0.001), and patient-related burnout (β = −0.20, p ≤ 0.001) were identified as central predictors. Important predictors in the Patient Safety Culture model were management support for patient safety (β = 0.24, p ≤ 0.001), supervisor support for patient safety (β = 0.18, p ≤ 0.001), and staffing (β = 0.21, p ≤ 0.001). The two models mainly resulted in different predictors. However, job satisfaction and leadership seem to play an important role in both models and can be used in the development of a comprehensive management of occupational and patient safety culture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

9 pages, 564 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in the Incidence of Symptomatic Cervical and Lumbar Disc Herniation According to Age, Sex and National Health Insurance Eligibility: A Pilot Study on the Disease’s Association with Work

by Young-Ki Kim, Dongmug Kang, Ilho Lee and Se-Yeong Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(10), 2094; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15102094 - 25 Sep 2018

Cited by 77 | Viewed by 10808

Abstract

The aim of this research was to identify the differences in the incidence of symptomatic cervical and lumbar disc herniation according to age, sex, and national health insurance eligibility. We evaluated the hospital documents of patients who received medical treatment for symptomatic cervical [...] Read more.

The aim of this research was to identify the differences in the incidence of symptomatic cervical and lumbar disc herniation according to age, sex, and national health insurance eligibility. We evaluated the hospital documents of patients who received medical treatment for symptomatic cervical and lumbar disc herniation between 2004 and 2010 and excluded those who claimed to have expenses at oriental medical clinics or pharmacies. Furthermore, any duplicate documents from the labor force population aged 20–69 years were excluded from the analysis. The results showed that the number of individuals diagnosed with symptomatic cervical and lumbar disc herniation increased with age, and the incidence of these diseases was higher in women than in men. Additionally, the incidence differed depending on the subject’s qualification for health insurance. The incidence of lumbar disc herniation showed differences depending on the degree of the lumbar burden. The present study findings may help determine whether lumbar disc herniation is associated with tasks performed at the patient’s workplace. Further research is needed to classify the risk of lumbar disk herniation in the workplace into detailed categories such as types of business, types of occupation, and lumbar compression force. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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12 pages, 698 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Daily Effect of Recovery on Exhaustion: A Cross-Level Interaction Effect of Workaholism

by Monica Molino, Claudio G. Cortese and Chiara Ghislieri

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(9), 1920; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15091920 - 4 Sep 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5462

Abstract

Workaholics generally allocate an excessive amount of time and energy to their work at the expense of having time for recovery from work. Nevertheless, a complete recovery is an essential prerequisite for well-being. This study examines the moderating role of workaholism in the [...] Read more.

Workaholics generally allocate an excessive amount of time and energy to their work at the expense of having time for recovery from work. Nevertheless, a complete recovery is an essential prerequisite for well-being. This study examines the moderating role of workaholism in the relationship between daily recovery and daily exhaustion. Data were collected among 95 participants who completed a general questionnaire and a diary booklet for five consecutive working days. Multilevel analysis results confirmed a cross-level interaction effect of workaholism, showing that the negative relationship between recovery and exhaustion at the daily level is weaker for those with a high (versus low) level of workaholism. These insights suggest the promotion of interventions aimed at addressing workaholism among workers, and the design of projects able to stimulate recovery from work, particularly for workaholics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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15 pages, 946 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protect Your Sleep When Work is Calling: How Work-Related Smartphone Use During Non-Work Time and Sleep Quality Impact Next-Day Self-Control Processes at Work

by Lilian Gombert, Anne-Kathrin Konze, Wladislaw Rivkin and Klaus-Helmut Schmidt

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(8), 1757; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15081757 - 15 Aug 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 11970

Abstract

In view of the rapid development of information and communication technologies, the present study sheds light on how work-related smartphone use during non-work time affects employees’ subsequent working day. Specifically, we examine work-related smartphone use and sleep quality as moderators of next-day self-control [...] Read more.

In view of the rapid development of information and communication technologies, the present study sheds light on how work-related smartphone use during non-work time affects employees’ subsequent working day. Specifically, we examine work-related smartphone use and sleep quality as moderators of next-day self-control processes at work. Theorizing that work-related smartphone use and self-control demands deplete a common limited regulatory resource, we suggest a strengthening two-way interaction between work-related smartphone use during non-work time and next-day self-control demands at work in predicting employees’ ego depletion at work. Moreover, in a three-way interaction, we analyze whether this interaction depends on employees’ sleep quality, assuming that when intensive work-related smartphone use is followed by high-quality sleep, the taxed regulatory resource can replenish overnight. Results from our diary study covering 10 working days (n = 63) indicate that after evenings with high work-related smartphone use, employees experience disproportionate levels of ego depletion when dealing with self-control demands at work. Sleep quality, however, attenuates this interaction. In cases of high sleep quality, next-day self-control processes at work are no longer affected by work-related smartphone use. Based on these findings, we discuss implications for employees and employers regarding work-related smartphone use and the relevance of sleep in replenishing drained resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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21 pages, 2120 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Who Has Higher Willingness to Pay for Occupational Safety and Health?—Views from Groups with Different Public Identities and Differences in Attention

by Shanshan Li, Hong Chen, Xinru Huang and Ruyin Long

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(8), 1667; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15081667 - 6 Aug 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3945

Abstract

Background: Occupational safety and health issues are closely associated with the wellbeing and survival of every worker and family, as well as of society as a whole. It is a type of typical public issue and requires cooperative governance among different governing subjects. [...] Read more.

Background: Occupational safety and health issues are closely associated with the wellbeing and survival of every worker and family, as well as of society as a whole. It is a type of typical public issue and requires cooperative governance among different governing subjects. Methods: According to the questionnaire investigation on 2179 subjects with different identities, the research explored the willingness to pay (WTP) for occupational safety and health and the degree of attention, with different identities, through the difference analysis and descriptive statistical analysis. The research studied the relationship between public attention and WTP through the methods of cross-analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. Results: (1) The public show a disregard attitude to occupational safety and health. (2) The public expect the government to fund and solve occupational safety and health problems rather than for themselves to pay directly. (3) Over 50% of questionnaire respondents defined occupational safety and health problems as being classified into two categories, namely, “no attention—government payment” or “no attention—refusal of individual payment”, according to the analysis. (4) The level of attention paid to occupational safety and health can significantly predict the individual income WTP, item WTP, subject WTP, and event WTP. Conclusions: This research aimed to outline the implications for the governance of occupational safety and health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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11 pages, 884 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Challenge Stress and Hindrance Stress Affect Quality of Health Care? Empirical Evidence from China

by Tengyang Ma, Tianan Yang, Yilun Guo, Yifei Wang and Jianwei Deng

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(8), 1628; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15081628 - 1 Aug 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5111

Abstract

Severe job stress has adverse effects on the health of Chinese healthcare workers. We investigated associations between job stress, health, and quality of health care among Chinese healthcare workers. To analyze associations between stress, health, and quality of health care among healthcare workers [...] Read more.

Severe job stress has adverse effects on the health of Chinese healthcare workers. We investigated associations between job stress, health, and quality of health care among Chinese healthcare workers. To analyze associations between stress, health, and quality of health care among healthcare workers in 74 Chinese hospitals, we surveyed 2426 healthcare workers of primary, secondary, and tertiary hospitals in Western, Central, and Eastern China in 2017. Structural equation modelling was used to examine relationships between job stress, health, and quality of health care. The mediating effect of health on the association between job stress and quality of health care was examined with the Sobel test. In the final model, health had a moderate direct positive effect on the quality of health care (β = 0.24; p < 0.001). Challenge stress had a direct inverse effect on health (β = −0.05; p < 0.05) and a significant direct positive effect on the quality of health care (β = 0.26; p < 0.001). Hindrance stress had a significant inverse effect on health (β = −0.37; p < 0.001) and a moderate inverse effect on the quality of health care (β = −0.19; p < 0.001). The correlation between challenge stress and hindrance stress was significant and positive (β = 0.59; p < 0.001). A partial mediation effect was in the final model. The health status of healthcare workers is an important concern at all levels of Chinese hospitals. To improve quality of healthcare, appropriate challenge stress is recommended among young staff, and interventions targeting hindrance stress should be developed and implemented in all hospital departments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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22 pages, 5312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Transition from Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Interventions to OSH Outcomes: An Empirical Analysis of Mechanisms and Contextual Factors within Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

by Guido J. L. Micheli, Enrico Cagno and Antonio Calabrese

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(8), 1621; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15081621 - 31 Jul 2018

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5501

Abstract

Many Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) interventions have proven to be effective only under controlled conditions; during the implementation in practice, the interventions may not work as expected, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs are affected by different contextual factors than [...] Read more.

Many Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) interventions have proven to be effective only under controlled conditions; during the implementation in practice, the interventions may not work as expected, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs are affected by different contextual factors than larger enterprises and these factors can influence the outcome of the OSH programs. Three different phases of an OSH intervention (design, implementation, and control) have been considered. The aim of this research is to understand what are the mechanisms by which an OSH intervention works or does not work as expected, together with barriers and drivers, and the related contextual factors. The research was designed following multiple case study research, which enables an in depth understanding of the intervention process and the identification of the most relevant factors for OSH. Data were collected through interviews with owner-managers or OSH managers of SMEs. Finally, the data were analysed through an analytical research framework that enabled the identification of the main mechanisms and contextual factors for the interventions that had an expected outcome and for those which had an unexpected outcome. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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18 pages, 1140 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characteristic Analysis of Unsafe Behavior by Coal Miners: Multi-Dimensional Description of the Pan-Scene Data

by Ruipeng Tong, Yanwei Zhang, Pengcheng Cui, Cunli Zhai, Meng Shi and Surui Xu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(8), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15081608 - 29 Jul 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5227

Abstract

As a high-risk occupation, coal mining has many accidents, primarily due to the unsafe behavior of coal miners. Based on the research of analysis of unsafe behavior and pan-scenario data of miners, a theoretical framework for the analysis of unsafe behavior characteristics was [...] Read more.

As a high-risk occupation, coal mining has many accidents, primarily due to the unsafe behavior of coal miners. Based on the research of analysis of unsafe behavior and pan-scenario data of miners, a theoretical framework for the analysis of unsafe behavior characteristics was proposed in this paper. The collected data were divided into realistic scenes and abstract scenes according to different manifestations; the pan-scene data were described from the eight dimensions of time, behavioral trace, location, behavioral property, behavioral individual, degree, unsafe action, and specialty using a quantitative method for the structure conversion; and the rules were discovered through cluster analysis and association analysis. A total of 225 coal mine gas explosion accidents were used for analysis, and the pan-scene data description and structure conversion of unsafe behavior that caused these accidents were realized. In a certain cluster, the distribution rules of dimensions and the interaction between different dimensions of unsafe behavior were explored after analysis. The results show that the proposed eight dimensions can fully explain the basic characteristics and attributes of the unsafe behavior of coal miners. The structure conversion can reduce the workload of managers and effectively improve the safety data processing capabilities, and the result of data analysis can provide data support and a management basis for safety management. A new method and thought for the data analysis of miners’ unsafe behavior is provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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13 pages, 300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Job Satisfaction and Associated Factors among Medical Staff in Tertiary Public Hospitals: Results from a National Cross-Sectional Survey in China

by Huixuan Zhou, Xueyan Han, Juan Zhang, Jing Sun, Linlin Hu, Guangyu Hu, Shichao Wu, Pengyu Zhao, Feng Jiang and Yuanli Liu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(7), 1528; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15071528 - 19 Jul 2018

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 6646

Abstract

Medical staff in China’s tertiary public hospitals are responsible for providing healthcare to a considerable number of patients, and their job satisfaction needs attention. The aim of this study is to investigate the job satisfaction of medical staff in tertiary public hospitals and [...] Read more.

Medical staff in China’s tertiary public hospitals are responsible for providing healthcare to a considerable number of patients, and their job satisfaction needs attention. The aim of this study is to investigate the job satisfaction of medical staff in tertiary public hospitals and to explore its associated factors. Based on a national survey conducted in 2016, this study included 43,645 physicians and nurses nested in 136 tertiary public hospitals in 31 provinces of China. Multi-level logistic regression was used to examine job satisfaction and its association with individual characteristics and job-related factors. Results showed that 48.22% respondents were satisfied with their job, and they were least satisfied with their compensation. Individual characteristics including occupation, gender, education background, alcohol drinking and self-reported health status, as well as job-related factors regarding professional title, work years, income, workload, doctor-patient relationship and practice setting were found to be significantly associated with job satisfaction. Given that some of these factors may be amenable to interventions, we suggest that government and hospital administrators could take some measures to promote continuing education, improve personal health, balance workload and compensation for medical staff, in order to improve the job satisfaction of medical staff in tertiary public hospitals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

17 pages, 1281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender Differences in Psychological Well-Being and Health Problems among European Health Professionals: Analysis of Psychological Basic Needs and Job Satisfaction

by Diego Gómez-Baya, Ana M. Lucia-Casademunt and José A. Salinas-Pérez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(7), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15071474 - 12 Jul 2018

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 8806

Abstract

Background: The aim was to examine the mediating role of basic psychological needs and job satisfaction in the relationship between the gender effect on health problems and psychological well-being for health professionals in Europe in 2015. Methods: Two multiple partial mediation [...] Read more.

Background: The aim was to examine the mediating role of basic psychological needs and job satisfaction in the relationship between the gender effect on health problems and psychological well-being for health professionals in Europe in 2015. Methods: Two multiple partial mediation analyses were conducted in order to test the partial mediation of both basic needs and job satisfaction, with gender as the independent variable and health problems or well-being, respectively, as the dependent variables, with a sample of health professionals. Results: Women reported lower psychological well-being and more health problems than men. The total effect of gender on both well-being and health problems was found to be significant. Regarding multiple mediation analyses: (a) the effect of gender on well-being was fully mediated by global basic need satisfaction and job satisfaction, such that gender did not present a significant direct effect and (b) the effect of gender on health problems was partially mediated by global basic need satisfaction and job satisfaction, such that the direct effect remained significant. Conclusions: The fulfillment of basic needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, as postulated within self-determination theory, was hypothesized to play a mediating role in the relationship between gender and well-being. Since significant gender differences in basic need satisfaction were observed, such a mediator should be controlled in order to achieve a significant relationship between gender and well-being when basic needs comes into play. The current study adds to the research emphasizing the need for satisfaction as a promising mechanism underlying for female health professionals’ well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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16 pages, 370 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations of Family Demands and Work–Life Conflict with Musculoskeletal Disorders among Korean Workers

by Young-Mee Kim and Sung-il Cho

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(7), 1419; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15071419 - 5 Jul 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3780

Abstract

Although family-related demands play a role in the effect of psychosocial work characteristics on health, research on work-related health has neglected the family domain. The aim of the present study was to identify the effects of family demands and work–life conflict (WLC) on [...] Read more.

Although family-related demands play a role in the effect of psychosocial work characteristics on health, research on work-related health has neglected the family domain. The aim of the present study was to identify the effects of family demands and work–life conflict (WLC) on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among Korean workers. We analyzed data from the nationally representative Korean Working Conditions Survey conducted with 50,007 workers in 2014. Logistic regression analyses stratified by gender were performed to identify gender differences, and interaction terms including WLCs and key covariates were also incorporated. Childcare demands (odds ratio (OR), 1.16) were related to MSD only in male workers, whereas homemaking (OR, 1.09) and eldercare (OR, 1.26) demands were related to MSDs only in female workers. WLC was also associated with MSDs among both male (OR, 1.50) and female (OR, 1.55) workers. We found no gender difference in the effect of WLC on MSDs (p = 0.91). Moreover, childcare demands may exacerbate the effect of WLC on MSDs. Our data suggest that family demands and WLC could be important targets of workplace interventions to prevent MSDs, and future research should evaluate the role of family demands and WLC as stressors in the workplace. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

9 pages, 870 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monitoring and Simulating Environmental Asbestos Dispersion from a Textile Factory

by Dongmug Kang, Yongsik Hwang, Yeyong Choi, Se-Yeong Kim and Young-Ki Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(7), 1398; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15071398 - 3 Jul 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4133

Abstract

Although workplace asbestos concentrations (AC) have been reported several times, the past environmental AC are relatively poorly studied. Due to the harmful effects of the asbestos industry, production has moved from early industrialized countries (Japan), to late industrialized countries (Korea), and finally to [...] Read more.

Although workplace asbestos concentrations (AC) have been reported several times, the past environmental AC are relatively poorly studied. Due to the harmful effects of the asbestos industry, production has moved from early industrialized countries (Japan), to late industrialized countries (Korea), and finally to industrializing countries (Indonesia). The purpose of this study was to determine current occupational exposure levels and evaluate neighborhood environmental exposure levels in an Indonesian asbestos textile factory through collaboration among three generation of industrialized countries. Asbestos concentrations were measured inside and outside of the factory and compared with simulated data. ACs in the factory were similar to those of 1980s and 1990s levels in the Korean factory that transferred the machines. Environmental ACs were dispersed according to wind direction. There were no significant differences between monitored and simulated data, and correlation coefficients between downwind, upwind, and middle wind directions were high, with some statistical significance. This study can be used to estimate past environmental ACs to understand the causality of asbestos related diseases. Because of the small sample size and specific weather conditions, a large-scale study of various asbestos exposure sources, including asbestos cement factories, shipyards, and mines, and various atmospheric conditions is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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19 pages, 361 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Efficient Measurement of Job Satisfaction: Facet-Items versus Facet Scales

by Angelika Lepold, Norbert Tanzer, Anita Bregenzer and Paulino Jiménez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(7), 1362; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15071362 - 28 Jun 2018

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 10131

Abstract

The measurement of job satisfaction as a central dimension for workplace health and well-being is crucial to set suitable health- and performance-enhancing management decisions. Measuring different facets of job satisfaction leads to a more precise understanding about job satisfaction in research as well [...] Read more.

The measurement of job satisfaction as a central dimension for workplace health and well-being is crucial to set suitable health- and performance-enhancing management decisions. Measuring different facets of job satisfaction leads to a more precise understanding about job satisfaction in research as well as to more specific interventions in companies. This study examines the measurement of job satisfaction with facet scales (multiple-items for one facet) and facet-items (one item for one facet). Facet-items are a cost-effective and fast way to measure job satisfaction in facets, whereas facet scales are more detailed and provide further information. Results from 788 bank employees showed that facet-items of job satisfaction were significantly correlated with the corresponding facet scales and had high factor loadings within the appropriate factor. Furthermore, the same correlational pattern between facet scales and external criteria was found for facet-items and external criteria (identification with the company, work engagement, stress, resources). The findings support the usage of facet-items in companies and in research where cost- and time-effectiveness is imperative and the usage of facet scales where an even deeper understanding of job satisfaction is needed. In practice, the usage of efficient measurements is evident, especially in the upcoming field of eHealth tools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

9 pages, 893 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Duty of Notification and Aviation Safety—A Study of Fatal Aviation Accidents in the United States in 2015

by Alpo Vuorio, Bruce Budowle, Antti Sajantila, Tanja Laukkala, Ilkka Junttila, Stein E. Kravik and Robin Griffiths

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(6), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15061258 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6046

Abstract

After the Germanwings accident, the French Safety Investigation Authority (BEA) recommended that the World Health Organization (WHO) and European Community (EC) develop clear rules for the duty of notification process. Aeromedical practitioners (AMEs) face a dilemma when considering the duty of notification and [...] Read more.

After the Germanwings accident, the French Safety Investigation Authority (BEA) recommended that the World Health Organization (WHO) and European Community (EC) develop clear rules for the duty of notification process. Aeromedical practitioners (AMEs) face a dilemma when considering the duty of notification and conflicts between pilot privacy and public and third-party safety. When balancing accountability, knowledge of the duty of notification process, legislation and the clarification of a doctor’s own set of values should be assessed a priori. Relatively little is known of the magnitude of this problem in aviation safety. To address this, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) database was searched to identify fatal accidents during 2015 in the United States in which a deceased pilot used a prescribed medication or had a disease that potentially reduced pilot performance and was not reported to the AME. Altogether, 202 finalized accident reports with toxicology were available from (the year) 2015. In 5% (10/202) of these reports, the pilot had either a medication or a disease not reported to an AME which according to the accident investigation was causal to the fatal accident. In addition, the various approaches to duty of notification in aviation in New Zealand, Finland and Norway are discussed. The process of notification of authorities without a pilot’s express permission needs to be carried out by using a guidance protocol that works within legislation and professional responsibilities to address the pilot and the public, as well as the healthcare provider. Professional guidance defining this duty of notification is urgently needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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20 pages, 903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Interactive Model among Potential Human Risk Factors: 331 Cases of Coal Mine Roof Accidents in China

by Ruipeng Tong, Cunli Zhai, Qingli Jia, Chunlin Wu, Yan Liu and Surui Xue

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(6), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15061144 - 1 Jun 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4453

Abstract

In order to explore optimal strategies for managing potential human risk factors, this paper developed an interactive model among potential human risk factors based on the development processes of accidents. This model was divided into four stages, i.e., risk latency stage, risk accumulation [...] Read more.

In order to explore optimal strategies for managing potential human risk factors, this paper developed an interactive model among potential human risk factors based on the development processes of accidents. This model was divided into four stages, i.e., risk latency stage, risk accumulation stage, risk explosion stage and risk residue stage. Based on this model, this paper analyzed risk management procedures and relevant personal’s responsibility in each stage, and then probed into the interactive mechanism among human risk factors in three aspects, i.e., knowledge, information and communication. The validity and feasibility of the model was validated by analyzing a coal mine roof accident in China. In addition, the contribution of different functional levels’ personnel in risk evolution was discussed. It showed that this model can effectively reveal the interactive mechanism of potential human risk factors, and can thus give significant insights into the development of risk management theories and practices. It also proves that the contribution of different functional levels’ personnel in the model is different. This can further help practitioners design enhanced Behavioral-Based Safety (BBS) intervention approaches which can have a more sustainable and persistent impact on corporate personnel’s safety behavior. Specific recommendations and suggestions are provided fundamentally for future BBS practices in the coal mine industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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15 pages, 1919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Map Changes and Theme Evolution in Work Hours: A Co-Word Analysis

by Bei Liu, Hong Chen and Xinru Huang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(5), 1039; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15051039 - 22 May 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4680

Abstract

(1) Background: Work hours are the basic carrier impacting employees’ work–life experience and organizational performance, and employees have greater anxiety in relation to work hours as new technology requires an increasingly faster work rhythm. However, scientific research on this topic lags far behind [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Work hours are the basic carrier impacting employees’ work–life experience and organizational performance, and employees have greater anxiety in relation to work hours as new technology requires an increasingly faster work rhythm. However, scientific research on this topic lags far behind the practice, calling to attention the need for research on work hours from the perspective of historical evolution; (2) Methods: The Bibliometric method is used to analyze the 6364 articles and their contained 77 high-frequency keywords related to work hours from the Web of Science published between 1901 and 2017. Additionally, an individual–organization–society integrative perspective was adopted to describe the map changes and theme evolution of work hours; (3) Results and conclusions: The hot spots of research at the organizational level changed significantly around 1990, with the theme of “long work hours” becoming the core issue in recent years. Studies on the individual level have gradually moved from physiological aspects to the issues of burnout and psychological distress. Research topics related to the social level are somewhat loose, and mainly focused on work–life conflict areas. In addition, the cluster analysis based on the high-frequency keywords classifies six research types according to their research themes. Based on these findings, future trends are proposed to provide theoretical and practical reference for future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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24 pages, 732 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Work Ability of Hong Kong Construction Workers in Relation to Individual and Work-Related Factors

by Jacky Y. K. Ng and Alan H. S. Chan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(5), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15050990 - 14 May 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5562

Abstract

The shortage in Hong Kong of construction workers is expected to worsen in future due to the aging population and increasing construction activity. Construction work is dangerous and to help reduce the premature loss of construction workers due to work-related disabilities, this study [...] Read more.

The shortage in Hong Kong of construction workers is expected to worsen in future due to the aging population and increasing construction activity. Construction work is dangerous and to help reduce the premature loss of construction workers due to work-related disabilities, this study measured the work ability of 420 Hong Kong construction workers with a Work Ability Index (WAI) which can be used to predict present and future work performance. Given the importance of WAI, in this study the effects of individual and work-related factors on WAI were examined to develop and validate a WAI model to predict how individual and work-related factors affect work ability. The findings will be useful for formulating a pragmatic intervention program to improve the work ability of construction workers and keep them in the work force. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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13 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Professional Identity, Job Satisfaction, and Work Engagement on Turnover Intention among Township Health Inspectors in China

by Wenjie Zhang, Hongdao Meng, Shujuan Yang and Danping Liu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(5), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15050988 - 14 May 2018

Cited by 103 | Viewed by 11919

Abstract

Health inspectors are part of the public health workforce in China, and its shortage has been identified as an urgent priority that should be addressed. Turnover is one of the main contributors to the shortage problem. This research assessed the influence of professional [...] Read more.

Health inspectors are part of the public health workforce in China, and its shortage has been identified as an urgent priority that should be addressed. Turnover is one of the main contributors to the shortage problem. This research assessed the influence of professional identity, job satisfaction and work engagement on turnover intention of township health inspectors and explored the intermediary effect of job satisfaction and work engagement between professional identity and turnover intention among township health inspectors in China. Data were collected from 2426 township health inspectors in Sichuan Province, China. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the hypothesized relationship among the variables. Results showed that a total of 11.3% of participants had a high turnover intention and 34.0% of participants had a medium turnover intention. Job satisfaction had a direct negative effect on turnover intention (β = −0.38, p < 0.001), work engagement had a direct negative effect on turnover intention (β = −0.13, p < 0.001), and professional identity had an indirect negative effect on turnover intention through the mediating effect of job satisfaction and work engagement. Our results strongly confirmed that professional identity, job satisfaction and work engagement were strong predicators of turnover intention. According to the results, desirable work environment, quality facilities, fair compensation and adequate advancement opportunities should be emphasized to improve job satisfaction. The turnover intention of health inspectors could be reduced through improving professional identity, enhancing job satisfaction and work engagement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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14 pages, 10925 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extremely Low Frequency-Magnetic Field (ELF-MF) Exposure Characteristics among Semiconductor Workers

by Sangjun Choi, Wonseok Cha, Jihoon Park, Seungwon Kim, Won Kim, Chungsik Yoon, Ju-Hyun Park, Kwonchul Ha and Donguk Park

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(4), 642; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15040642 - 31 Mar 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5641

Abstract

We assessed the exposure of semiconductor workers to extremely low frequency-magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and identified job characteristics affecting ELF-MF exposure. These were demonstrated by assessing the exposure of 117 workers involved in wafer fabrication (fab) and chip packaging wearing personal dosimeters for a [...] Read more.

We assessed the exposure of semiconductor workers to extremely low frequency-magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and identified job characteristics affecting ELF-MF exposure. These were demonstrated by assessing the exposure of 117 workers involved in wafer fabrication (fab) and chip packaging wearing personal dosimeters for a full shift. A portable device was used to monitor ELF-MF in high temporal resolution. All measurements were categorized by operation, job and working activity during working time. ELF-MF exposure of workers were classified based on the quartiles of ELF-MF distribution. The average levels of ELF-MF exposure were 0.56 µT for fab workers, 0.59 µT for chip packaging workers and 0.89 µT for electrical engineers, respectively. Exposure to ELF-MF differed among types of factory, operation, job and activity. Workers engaged in the diffusion and chip testing activities showed the highest ELF-MF exposure. The ELF-MF exposures of process operators were found to be higher than those of maintenance engineers, although peak exposure and/or patterns varied. The groups with the highest quartile ELF-MF exposure level are operators in diffusion, ion implantation, module and testing operations, and maintenance engineers in diffusion, module and testing operations. In conclusion, ELF-MF exposure among workers can be substantially affected by the type of operation and job, and the activity or location. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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24 pages, 3780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Roles of Motivation and Coping Behaviours in Managing Stress: Qualitative Interview Study of Hong Kong Expatriate Construction Professionals in Mainland China

by Isabelle Yee Shan Chan, Mei-yung Leung and Qi Liang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(3), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15030561 - 20 Mar 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9377

Abstract

Driven by fast-growing economies worldwide, the number of international construction projects is booming, and employing expatriates has inevitably become a strategy used by construction firms. However, stress arising from expatriate assignments can lead to early return, assignment failure, and staff turnover, causing in [...] Read more.

Driven by fast-growing economies worldwide, the number of international construction projects is booming, and employing expatriates has inevitably become a strategy used by construction firms. However, stress arising from expatriate assignments can lead to early return, assignment failure, and staff turnover, causing in significant losses to an organisation. Extensive research has focused on the effectiveness of coping behaviours in relation to stress. However, studies investigating the antecedents of coping are rare. The limited studies to date tend to focus on content-based motivations (identifying what), instead of on how coping behaviours can be motivated in the stress management process (identifying how). Focus on expatriate construction professionals (ECPs) is further limited. Hence, this study aims to investigate from a process theory perspective the role of motivation in the stress management process. Using a qualitative interview study approach, involving 22 in-depth interviews, this study first identifies the content of motivation, coping behaviours, performance, and stress in the context of Hong Kong ECPs working on cross-cultural projects in China; it then unveils and explains the associations between the identified variables. Based on the results, stakeholders are recommended to review pre-departure training, so as to ensure that key elements such as personal awareness of stress (cognitive, affective, and physical), expectancies of coping strategies on stress (adaptive or maladaptive), and expectancies of the influence of stress on performance are covered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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17 pages, 1596 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Work-Related Factors in the Development of Psychological Distress and Associated Mental Disorders: Differential Views of Human Resource Managers, Occupational Physicians, Primary Care Physicians and Psychotherapists in Germany

by Florian Junne, Martina Michaelis, Eva Rothermund, Felicitas Stuber, Harald Gündel, Stephan Zipfel and Monika A. Rieger

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(3), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15030559 - 20 Mar 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 8165

Abstract

Objectives: This study analyses the perceived relevance of stress-dimensions in work-settings from the differential views of Human Resource Managers (HRM), Occupational Physicians (OP), Primary Care Physicians (PCP) and Psychotherapists (PT) in Germany. Methods: Cross-sectional study design, using a self-report questionnaire. Descriptive [...] Read more.

Objectives: This study analyses the perceived relevance of stress-dimensions in work-settings from the differential views of Human Resource Managers (HRM), Occupational Physicians (OP), Primary Care Physicians (PCP) and Psychotherapists (PT) in Germany. Methods: Cross-sectional study design, using a self-report questionnaire. Descriptive measures and explorative bivariate methods were applied for group-comparisons. Results are presented as rankings of perceived importance and as polarity profiles of contrasting views. Results: N = 627 participants completed the questionnaires (HRM: n = 172; OP: n = 133; PCP: n = 136; PT: n = 186). The stress dimensions with the highest mean ratings across all four professions were: ‘social relationships in the work place’ (M = 3.55, SD = 0.62) and ‘superiors´ leadership style’ (M = 3.54, SD = 0.64). Mean ratings of perceived relevance of stress dimensions differed most between HRM and the three medical professions. Conclusions: The perceived importance of work-related stress-dimensions seems to be higher in the medical disciplines (OP, PCP, PT) than in the group from the management sector (HRM). However, no fundamental disagreement on the role of work-related stress-dimensions seems to hinder e.g., intensified efforts of cooperation across sectors in tackling the “stress-pandemic” and improving the (mental) health of employees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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9 pages, 433 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Can We Learn about Workplace Heat Stress Management from a Safety Regulator Complaints Database?

by Alana Hansen, Dino Pisaniello, Blesson Varghese, Shelley Rowett, Scott Hanson-Easey, Peng Bi and Monika Nitschke

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(3), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15030459 - 6 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5850

Abstract

Heat exposure can be a health hazard for many Australian workers in both outdoor and indoor situations. With many heat-related incidents left unreported, it is often difficult to determine the underlying causal factors. This study aims to provide insights into perceptions of potentially [...] Read more.

Heat exposure can be a health hazard for many Australian workers in both outdoor and indoor situations. With many heat-related incidents left unreported, it is often difficult to determine the underlying causal factors. This study aims to provide insights into perceptions of potentially unsafe or uncomfortably hot working conditions that can affect occupational health and safety using information provided by the public and workers to the safety regulator in South Australia (SafeWork SA). Details of complaints regarding heat exposure to the regulator’s “Help Centre” were assembled in a dataset and the textual data analysed thematically. The findings showed that the majority of calls relate to indoor work environments such as kitchens, factories, and warehouses. The main themes identified were work environment, health effects, and organisational issues. Impacts of hot working conditions ranged from discomfort to serious heat-related illnesses. Poor management practices and inflexibility of supervisors featured strongly amongst callers’ concerns. With temperatures predicted to increase and energy prices escalating, this timely study, using naturalistic data, highlights accounts of hot working conditions that can compromise workers’ health and safety and the need for suitable measures to prevent heat stress. These could include risk assessments to assess the likelihood of heat stress in workplaces where excessively hot conditions prevail. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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9 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Emerging Workforce of International University Student Workers: Injury Experience in an Australian University

by Yahya Thamrin, Dino Pisaniello, Cally Guerin and Paul Rothmore

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(3), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15030456 - 6 Mar 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4549

Abstract

International university students are a growing section of the workforce and are thought to be at greater risk of injury. Qualitative studies have highlighted vulnerabilities, but there is a shortage of quantitative research exploring the injury experience and associated risk factors of this [...] Read more.

International university students are a growing section of the workforce and are thought to be at greater risk of injury. Qualitative studies have highlighted vulnerabilities, but there is a shortage of quantitative research exploring the injury experience and associated risk factors of this emerging issue. In this study, a total of 466 university student workers across a range of study programs in a single Australian university completed an online survey, with questions relating to their background, working experience, training and injury experience. Risk factors for injury were explored in a multivariate statistical model. More than half had not received any safety training before they started work, and 10% reported having had a work injury. About half of these injuries occurred after training. Statistically significant risk factors for injury included working more than 20 h per week (adjusted odds ratio 2.20 (95% CI 1.03–4.71) and lack of confidence in discussing safety issues (AOR 2.17; 95% CI 1.13–4.16). The findings suggest the need for a more engaging and effective approach to safety education and a limit on working hours. This situation is a moral challenge for universities, in that they are effectively sponsoring young workers in the community. It is recommended that longitudinal studies of international student workers be conducted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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11 pages, 294 KiB

Open AccessReview

Emerging Ergonomics Issues and Opportunities in Mining

by Patrick G. Dempsey, Lydia M. Kocher, Mahiyar F. Nasarwanji, Jonisha P. Pollard and Ashley E. Whitson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(11), 2449; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15112449 - 3 Nov 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6560

Abstract

Ergonomics is the scientific discipline that investigates the interactions between humans and systems to optimize both human and system performance for worker safety, health, and productivity. Ergonomics is frequently involved either in the design of emerging technologies or in strategies to alleviate unanticipated [...] Read more.

Ergonomics is the scientific discipline that investigates the interactions between humans and systems to optimize both human and system performance for worker safety, health, and productivity. Ergonomics is frequently involved either in the design of emerging technologies or in strategies to alleviate unanticipated human performance problems with emerging technologies. This manuscript explores several such emerging issues and opportunities in the context of the mining sector. In mining, the equipment, tools, and procedures have changed considerably and continue to change. Body-worn technology provides a number of opportunities to advance the safety and health of miners, while teleoperation and autonomous mining equipment stand to benefit significantly from ergonomics applications in other sectors. This manuscript focuses on those issues and opportunities that can impact the safety and health of miners in the near term. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

Other

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6 pages, 1865 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia among Inpatients via the Emergency Department: A Propensity-Score Matched Analysis

by Jin-young Min, Hye-Jin Kim, Chungsik Yoon, Kiyoung Lee, Myoungsouk Yeo and Kyoung-bok Min

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(6), 1178; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15061178 - 5 Jun 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4313

Abstract

Background: Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is an inflammatory condition of the lung that develops at least 48–72 h after admission. HAP is contracted by both intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU patients, but no studies have examined the risk of HAP in patients admitted [...] Read more.

Background: Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is an inflammatory condition of the lung that develops at least 48–72 h after admission. HAP is contracted by both intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU patients, but no studies have examined the risk of HAP in patients admitted to the emergency department (ED). This study investigated the risk of developing HAP in ED patients and compared the occurrence of HAP 3–10 days after the first day of hospitalization in patients hospitalized via ED with those hospitalized via outpatient clinics. Methods: We analyzed the 2010 National Inpatient Sample data collected by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service in South Korea. After propensity score matching for age, sex, residential area, hospital, and diseases, 153,130 inpatients (76,565 admitted via ED and 76,565 admitted via outpatient clinics) were included in the analysis. The diagnosis of pneumonia was based on the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision (Pneumonia, all (J12–J18); Pneumonia, bacterial (J13–J15); Pneumonia, non-bacterial (J12, J16, J17); and Pneumonia, unspecified (J18)). Results: The percentage of newly diagnosed cases of pneumonia in inpatients admitted via ED was significantly higher than that in inpatients admitted via outpatient clinics. After propensity score matching for baseline characteristics, the likelihood of developing pneumonia (excluding the category of ‘Pneumonia, non-bacterial’) in inpatients hospitalized via ED was significantly increased by 1.33–1.97-fold. The cumulative incidence of pneumonia was also significantly higher in patients admitted via ED than in those hospitalized via outpatient clinics. Conclusions: ED visits may be an important risk factor for the development of HAP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Issues in Occupational Safety and Health)

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