Search Results (202)

This study analyzes the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity using a bibliometric approach through a general analysis and one that includes inclusion criteria such as English language, open access, and primary research publications to identify only those articles that explicitly address the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity. It is recognized that both physical and psychosocial conditions of the work environment directly influence workers’ health and organizational performance. For this purpose, a bibliometric review was conducted in academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Taylor & Francis, resulting in the selection of 4794 relevant articles for general analysis. Additionally, 116 relevant articles were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Tools and methodologies, such as Rayyan, Excel, VOSviewer 1.6.20, and PRISMA, were used to classify the studies and identify trends, collaboration networks, and geographical distribution. The results reveal a sustained growth in scientific production, with clusters on occupational safety and health, work environment factors, and the characteristics of the population, approach, and methodologies used in the studies. Likewise, Procedia Manufacturing, International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, and Ergonomics stand out as the main sources of publication, while countries such as Sweden, Poland, and the United States lead the scientific production in this field. In addition, the network of co-occurrence of keywords evidences a comprehensive approach that articulates physical or ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors with organizational performance, while the network of authors shows consolidated collaborations and studies focused on analyzing the relationship between physical demands and musculoskeletal disorders from advanced ergonomic approaches. Full article

The evolution of Industry 4.0 and the emerging paradigm of Industry 5.0 have introduced disruptive technologies that are reshaping modern manufacturing environments. Among these, Digital Twin (DT) and Industrial Metaverse (IM) technologies are increasingly recognized for their potential to enhance Occupational Health and Safety (OHS). However, a comprehensive understanding of how these technologies integrate to support OHS in manufacturing remains limited. This study systematically explores the transformative role of DT and IM in creating immersive, intelligent, and human-centric safety ecosystems. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of 75 peer-reviewed studies from the SCOPUS and Web of Science databases was conducted. The review identifies key enabling technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Extended Reality (XR), Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), and Collaborative Robots (COBOTS), and highlights their applications in real-time monitoring, immersive safety training, and predictive hazard mitigation. A conceptual framework is proposed, illustrating a synergistic digital ecosystem that integrates predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and immersive training to enhance the OHS. The findings highlight both the transformative benefits and the key adoption challenges of these technologies, including technical complexities, data security, privacy, ethical concerns, and organizational resistance. This study provides a foundational framework for future research and practical implementation in Industry 5.0. Full article

The widespread adoption of mobile work, driven by advancements in information and communication technology, has increasingly blurred the boundaries between work and personal life. This phenomenon can increase job stress, potentially leading to sleep deprivation, which affects not only employees’ health and well-being but also organizational performance. Grounded in Conservation of Resources theory, this study examines the pathway through which mWork contributes to sleep deprivation, focusing on the mediating role of job stress, and investigates the moderating effects of gender and number of children on this relationship. Data were collected using a stratified random sampling method across three waves with 4-week intervals, involving 325 employees in South Korea engaged in diverse occupations, including the administrative, technical, service, and sales sectors. The findings reveal that mWork increases sleep deprivation through the mediation of job stress. Furthermore, the relationship between mWork and job stress was found to vary depending on gender and number of children, with stronger moderating effects observed among women and employees with children. This study underscores the need for organizations to develop tailored management strategies that address the unique challenges posed by mWork, taking particular note of employees’ gender and family responsibilities. By mitigating the negative effects of mWork on job stress and sleep deprivation, organizations can enhance employee well-being and promote sustainable long-term performance. Full article

Public safety personnel (PSP) are known to experience difficult and demanding occupational environments, which were further complicated by the COVID-19 crisis. While public safety research typically focuses on the impact of operational stressors on PSP functioning and wellbeing, relatively less is known about the types and impacts of organizational stressors and how all these affect social wellbeing during the pandemic. The current study surveyed Canadian firefighters (n = 123), paramedics (n = 246), and public safety communicators (n = 48) that continued to serve the public over the course of the pandemic. Participants responded to two open-ended survey questions about how COVID-19 affected their lives at work and home. Using an inductive thematic analysis approach, responses were coded to identify emergent, data-driven themes while drawing on existing theory for analysis. Across occupational groups, qualitative analyses revealed that the public safety measures imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated existing operational and organizational strains, including increased exposure to distressing calls, absenteeism and coping with alcohol, and a lack of support from management. Participants also identified financial strain and housing insecurity as stressors, as well as frustration and helplessness at others’ non-compliance with public health advisories and protocols. Communication surrounding the rationale behind government decision-making, the efficacy of serology tests, and rates of infection were also identified. Together, these findings offer a nuanced understanding of the interplay among operational, organizational, and social stressors experienced by Canadian PSP during the COVID-19 pandemic, illuminating their impact on mental health and wellbeing, and identifying targeted areas of focus for future planning and meaningful intervention to support PSP wellness. Full article

Public safety personnel and frontline healthcare professionals are at increased risk of exposure to potentially psychologically traumatic events (PPTEs) and developing post-traumatic stress injuries (PTSIs, e.g., depression, anxiety) by the nature of their work. PTSI is also connected to increased absenteeism, suicidality, and performance decrements, which compromise occupational and public health and safety in trauma-exposed workers. There is limited evidence on the cost effectiveness of proactive “prevention” programs aimed at reducing the risk of PTSIs. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to measure the economic effectiveness of proactive PTSI mitigation programs among occupational groups exposed to frequent occupational PPTEs, focusing on the outcomes related to PTSI symptoms, absenteeism, and psychological wellness. Findings from 15 included studies demonstrate that proactive interventions can yield substantial economic and health benefits, with Return On Investment (ROI) values ranging widely from −20% to 3560%. Shorter interventions (≤6 months) often produced higher returns, while longer interventions (>12 months) showed more moderate or negative returns. Notably, the level at which an intervention is targeted significantly affects outcomes—programs aimed at managers, such as the 4 h RESPECT training course, demonstrated a high ROI and broad organizational impact by enhancing leadership support for employee mental health. Sensitivity analyses highlighted significant variability based on the organizational context, program design, and participant characteristics. The majority of proactive interventions successfully reduced psychological distress and enhanced workplace outcomes, although thoughtful consideration of program design and implementation context is essential. Full article

Work-related stress is a major contributing factor to the relatively high number of deaths from suicide and other mental disorders among those who work in the construction industry. Despite the knowledge that unmanaged stress can manifest as depression and ultimately trigger thoughts of suicide or even the act itself, workers’ mental health is often neglected. This study aims to identify the risk factors that are at the root of the workers’ mental health challenges, as well as the strategies that can be initiated to overcome or at least mitigate them. To accomplish this, a systematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA method, and 132 relevant publications that met the pre-defined inclusion criteria were selected for further analysis. From the data analysis, 45 risk factors were identified and classified into five categories based on the literature and the definition of stressors. The most frequently cited mental health risk factors were revealed to be gender inequality (diversity and equity category), poor working conditions (health-related category), work overload (job demand category), poor work–life balance (organizational category), and lack of social support (personal category). Thirty-two (32) intervention strategies were identified and divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary types. It was evident from the findings that combining all three types of interventions is the most effective way to improve the mental health of the construction workforce. The findings from this study provide valuable insights for policymakers and regulatory agencies who develop and implement policies aimed at improving mental health and occupational safety in the construction industry. Full article

This paper analyzes the occupational risks associated with the activities of transporting and spreading bituminous emulsion, focusing on a specific technological process used in a company in Romania. This study aims to identify risk factors, systematically evaluate them, and propose preventive measures aimed at reducing occupational accidents and diseases. The main hazards identified include exposure to hazardous chemicals, mechanical risks generated by the equipment used, and ergonomic factors that may affect workers’ health. Given the specificity of the activity analyzed, there is currently a lack of relevant studies specifically addressing the occupational safety and health of this category of workers, which further highlights the novelty and importance of the present research. Based on the results obtained, recommendations are formulated for optimizing work conditions, including the use of appropriate protective equipment, improving operational procedures, and implementing effective technical and organizational measures. This study contributes to the development of a solid preventive framework in the field of transporting and applying bituminous emulsion, thus supporting the improvement of occupational safety and health in the road construction industry. The results obtained can be used to develop more effective policies in the field of occupational safety and to raise awareness among decision-makers about the need for proactive measures in preventing occupational risks. Full article

Work is a key social determinant of mental health, and adverse organizational conditions in healthcare settings increase psychosocial risks. Leadership influences workplace well-being, yet its impact on mental health and gender inequalities remains underexplored. Despite the feminization of the health sector, disparities persist in leadership access, role expectations, and work–family reconciliation, exacerbating occupational stress. Aims: This study examines leadership practices in public hospitals, focusing on their relationship with mental health, organizational dimensions (recognition and role stress), and gender disparities. It explores the perspectives of both workers and managers to understand how leadership shapes workplace conditions and well-being. Methods: A qualitative, cross-sectional study was conducted as part of the FONDECYT project 1220547. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 64 workers from public hospitals in Santiago, Chile, including clinical and administrative staff. The analysis supported by Grounded Theory identified key categories: constructive and destructive leadership, recognition, role stress, and gender disparities in leadership. Results: Constructive leadership—characterized by communication, fairness, and recognition—was linked to a healthier work environment and improved well-being. In contrast, destructive leadership (characterized by abuse of power and imposition, or inaction, lack of support, and absence of effective direction) contributed to role stress, workplace mistreatment, and job dissatisfaction. Recognition was a crucial but insufficient motivator, as the lack of formal mechanisms led to frustration. Role stress emerged as a significant risk for well-being, with subordinates experiencing overload, ambiguity, and conflicting expectations. Gender inequalities persisted as women faced more tremendous barriers to leadership and difficulties balancing work and family responsibilities. Workers and managers had differing perspectives, with subordinates prioritizing fairness and recognition while managers emphasized operational constraints. Conclusions: Leadership training should emphasize trust, equity, and recognition to enhance workplace well-being. Institutional policies must address role stress, strengthen formal recognition systems, and promote gender equity in leadership. Future research should integrate quantitative methods to explore leadership’s impact on organizational conditions and mental health outcomes. Full article

Background and Objective: Aging in place (AIP) refers to the ability to remain in one’s home and community as one ages. While AIP is widely regarded as beneficial, disparities in housing stability, accessibility, and affordability create inequitable barriers. Current clinical AIP interventions focus on individual-level solutions, often overlooking broader socio-economic and structural determinants.This study examines how community-based interventions, particularly those from Rebuilding Together Richmond (RT-R), address these gaps through home modifications and critical repairs. Methods: Using the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) Research Framework, demographic and service data from home modifications from a community-based organization, RT-R was analyzed. Descriptive statistics assessed the characteristics of homeowners served, the types of repairs performed, and their potential impact on AIP. Repairs were categorized as structural or occupational to evaluate their contributions to home safety and accessibility. Results: RT-R provided repairs for 33 homes, benefiting 47 individuals all of whom were Black or African American living in a ZIP code with high eviction rates. The majority (63.8%) were female, and 51% were older adults and/or had a disability. Structural repairs were more frequent than occupational modifications reflecting both homeowner needs, service availability, and community organizational goals. Conclusions: Housing stability is a critical yet overlooked factor in AIP. Integrating clinical AIP interventions with community-based solutions can more effectively address health disparities, reduce institutionalization risks, and improve long-term livability. Partnerships between healthcare practitioners and organizations like Rebuilding Together are essential to advancing equity in AIP. Access to housing is not accessible housing, and to remove barriers, practitioners and community-based organizations should expand their appreciation of obstacles to include historical, contemporary, economic, and environmental factors to work toward equity in aging in place for all. Full article

Occupational health and safety (OHS) is a critical component of sustainable work practices, guaranteeing employee well-being in parallel with minimizing business operation threats. The integration of ethics in OHS practices, however, poses a major obstacle, given that most businesses prefer complying with regulations rather than adopting proactive, ethically directed risk avoidance. This study employs a systemic process in assessing business ethics integration in practices of OHS, emphasizing leadership, employee engagement, and precautionary safety. This quantitative survey research sought to gauge the utilization of OHS practices among firms in the construction industry. This study examined critical factors such as employee training, absenteeism patterns, wellness programs, and usage of safety practices. Our study outcomes identify a reduction in accidents in workplaces, lower absenteeism, and improved monitoring of employee well-being when a blend of systemic safety programs and ethically directed strategies is utilized. This study emphasizes the imperative of a proactive, ethically comprehensive strategy in practices of OHS, which calls for improved leadership, constant safety learning, and enhanced wellness programs. The findings contribute to the development of sustainable risk management frameworks, offering practical insights for businesses, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to improve workplace safety culture. Full article

Background: To effectively promote physical activity (PA) participation in preschool-aged children with disabilities (PACD), a comprehensive understanding of the associated factors is necessary. Consequently, this study aims to examine the factors influencing PA participation in PACD using the socio-ecological model. Methods: The Disability Status Survey 2020 in South Korea has been used for the current study. PACD aged below five years were selected, resulting in 5825 children. Variables were selected across each level of the socio-ecological model: (1) intrapersonal level (child’s sex, chronic condition, disability level, perceived health), (2) interpersonal level (siblings’ status, grandparents’ status, satisfaction with number of friends), (3) organizational level (enrollment in physical therapy, enrollment in occupational therapy), and (4) environmental level (residential area, government support). The decision tree analysis was conducted using chi-square automatic interaction detection to examine multi-level associated factors of PA participation in PACD. Results: The decision tree analysis produced a three-level model with six terminal nodes. In the study sample, 48.4% of participants reported participating in PA. The most common location for PA was at home, with balance exercises being the most frequent type of activity, followed by stretching. Frequent barriers to regular PA participation included a lack of professionals who are knowledgeable about disabilities and the absence of disability-specific programs. The decision tree analysis identified living with grandparents, the child’s sex, having a sibling, and enrollment in physical therapy as common predictors of PA participation in PACD. Conclusions: This study’s strength lies in its thorough examination of the socio-ecological factors influencing PA participation in PACD. The associated factors span both intrapersonal and interpersonal levels. To enhance PA participation among PACD, interventions should target these levels. Full article

Background: Work engagement is defined as a positive and fulfilling work-related state of mind, characterized by vigor, dedication, and absorption. High levels of engagement are associated with improved organizational functioning and a stronger sense of belonging among employees. Objective: This study, conducted in collaboration with a large metalworking company in central Italy, aimed to explore the relationship between work engagement and organizational cynicism among Maintenance Team Leaders. Specifically, the goals were to assess the levels of engagement and emotional involvement and to examine how these dimensions vary according to socio-demographic factors such as gender, age, educational background, and seniority. The ultimate aim was to support occupational physicians and workplace safety officers in identifying the best practices for preventing psychosocial risks, work-related stress, and burnout. Methods: A total of 99 Maintenance Leaders participated in the study. The Italian version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) was used to assess the three core dimensions of engagement: vigor, dedication, and absorption. Additionally, the Cynicism scale development by Naus, Van Iterson, and Roe was administered. Results: While the sample size limits generalizability, the findings offer preliminary insight into engagement levels within this population. The results emphasize the need to expand the sample and to conduct comparative analyses across different teams within the company better understand engagement patterns and inform targeted interventions. Conclusions: Although work engagement has been extensively studied in the healthcare sector, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, limited research has addressed its role in the industrial context, and even less within the metalworking sector. This study contributes to filling that gap by providing an initial profile of engagement among maintenance leaders and by highlighting the interplay between engagement, cynicism, and individual characteristics in a high-demand industrial environment. Full article

(1) Background: The meatpacking industry in Brazil is vital for economic growth. It poses significant occupational health risks, particularly Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs). The present study analyzes the profile of slaughterhouse workers based on the governmental notification database. (2) Methods: The socio-demographic dataset (n = 820) was filled with worker data, and health profiles reported Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) and WMSDs from 2007 to 2019, available online by the Brazilian Health Service. The dataset was analyzed to identify patterns of injuries and contributing factors. Descriptive statistics outlined worker characteristics, while Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) explored associations between variables. (3) Results: The results revealed that 51.34% of workers were male, with most aged 30–45. Repetitive movements were reported by 89.63% of respondents, while 78.90% worked shifts exceeding six hours. Soft tissue disorders were the most prevalent diagnosis (40.97%). The majority (53.17%) experienced temporary disabilities, and 5.73% had permanent impairments. Key risk factors included inadequate breaks, stressful environments, and limited ergonomic adaptations. This study highlights the critical need for preventative measures, such as ergonomic interventions, adequate rest breaks, and employee education, to mitigate WMSDs. Future research should include ergonomic evaluations and consider broader organizational variables to enhance slaughterhouse occupational health and safety. Addressing these challenges is essential for improving worker welfare and maintaining industry productivity. Full article

(1) Background: The dynamic nature of workplaces highlights the urgent need for effective strategies to promote a safe working environment and enhance workers’ well-being. These strategies must address both organizational safety performance and individual safety behaviors. (2) Methods: This study employed the job demands-resources (JD-R) model to examine the impact of workplace factors on safety behaviors and organizational safety performance among 3255 manufacturing companies. The data utilized in this study originate from the 10th Occupational Safety and Health Status Survey by the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute (KOSHA). (3) Results: Occupational stressors involving physical and psychological risks (job demand) significantly reduced employees’ adherence to safety practices while increasing workplace diseases and accidents. Conversely, when job resources were effectively mobilized to bolster individual resources, safety behaviors improved, and the incidence of workplace diseases and accidents decreased. Middle managers’ safety competency emerged as a critical moderating factor in these relationships, amplifying the positive impact of job resources. (4) Conclusions: The results highlight the necessity of managing physical and emotional hazards while enhancing middle managers’ abilities to promote workplace safety. A multidimensional approach is essential for preventing workplace accidents and improving safety outcomes. Implementing a comprehensive stress management system is particularly vital to safeguarding workers in the manufacturing industry. Full article

This study explores the link between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the process of identifying and assessing occupational risks in industrial and organizational environments, highlighting the importance of these goals in promoting a safe, healthy, and sustainable work environment. In the center of this analysis are SDG 3 (“Good Health and Well-Being”) and SDG 8 (“Decent Work and Economic Growth”), which highlight the need to create working conditions that prioritize the safety of workers. The study analyzes the correlation between the implementation of these global objectives and occupational risk management processes. Research results indicate that linking the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to these processes reduces the incidence of accidents and occupational diseases and also contributes to the achievement of global sustainability goals. An integrated approach improves the resilience of organizations, promotes equity in the professional environment, and supports sustainable economic development. The findings of the study offer important insights for policymakers, managers, and researchers, indicating that adopting a common framework for sustainability and occupational safety can bring significant benefits at local and global levels. Thus, the research encourages the widespread application of this integrative model in organizational policies and practices. Full article