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Medic-Pericevic S, Mikov I, Spanovic M, Maric N, Zvekic-Svorcan J, Krasnik R. De Quervain's tenosynovitis as an occupational disease in agricultural worker: A case report. Work 2024:WOR230135. [PMID: 38669502 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND De Quervain's tenosynovitis is upper-limb disorder, more frequent in women. It is rarely recognized as an occupational disease. OBJECTIVE In this paper we reported work related de Quervain's tenosynovitis in cow milker. METHODS Ergonomic risk factors were assessed by utilizing assessment of repetitive tasks (ART) of the upper limbs method. Physical examination and imaging exams were used. RESULTS We presented a 36-year-old female agricultural worker (workplace cow milker) exposed to work factors (forceful hand/wrist exertions, repetition, extreme postures) for 14 years. She was suffering the pain in the right hand, mainly near the thumb for few years. She was treated conservatively and surgically, however disability was permanent. Clinical examination showed slight edema of the right hand, increased palm's sweating. Patient had reduced range of movements and grip strength. CONCLUSIONS Report shows that work-related factors were strongly associated with diagnosed de Quervain's tenosynovitis. Hand function plays an essential role in carrying out activities of daily living and this disorder pose a relevant burden of disease. Exposure to biomechanical factors should be an important initial target for the prevention of De Quervain's tenosynovitis in the working population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Medic-Pericevic
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Institute of Occupational Health of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Ivan Mikov
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- University Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Milorad Spanovic
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Institute of Occupational Health of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Nada Maric
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Institute of Occupational Health and Sports Medicine, Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Jelena Zvekic-Svorcan
- Department of Medical rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Special Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Rastislava Krasnik
- Department of Medical rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
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Buisseret F, Draye N, Di Santo C, Pacewicz J, Pannetier J, Dierick F, Telliez F. Occupational Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Disorders among Workers in Dairy Diversification. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:178. [PMID: 38255067 PMCID: PMC10815434 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a changing European agricultural context, diversification of dairy farms is gaining attention. This study seeks to (1) assess musculoskeletal pain prevalence associated with tasks such as butter, yogurt, and cheese production; and (2) analyze associated risks. METHODS Observing 31, mostly female, workers, we utilized the ERGOROM questionnaire, a methodology adapted from the Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, and Key Indicator Method forms. RESULTS Findings revealed that tasks like load carrying (42% of workers), manual work (17%), and awkward postures (14%) resulted in musculoskeletal pain, predominantly in the lower back (65%), neck (39%), and dominant upper limb areas (shoulder: 61%, elbow: 26%, and wrist: 65%). While psychosocial risks remained low, concerns arose from workload, hygiene standards, and resource unpredictability. CONCLUSIONS As dairy farming evolves from artisanal to semi-industrial, our study emphasizes the importance of ergonomic adaptations to protect farmers' health and prevent musculoskeletal disorders during diversification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabien Buisseret
- Laboratoire Forme et Fonctionnement Humain, CeREF, Rue Trieu Kaisin 136, 6061 Montignies-sur-Sambre, Belgium; (N.D.); (C.D.S.); (J.P.)
- Service de Physique Nucléaire et Subnucléaire, Université de Mons, UMONS Research Institute for Complex Systems, 20 Place du Parc, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Draye
- Laboratoire Forme et Fonctionnement Humain, CeREF, Rue Trieu Kaisin 136, 6061 Montignies-sur-Sambre, Belgium; (N.D.); (C.D.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Camille Di Santo
- Laboratoire Forme et Fonctionnement Humain, CeREF, Rue Trieu Kaisin 136, 6061 Montignies-sur-Sambre, Belgium; (N.D.); (C.D.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Jocelyn Pacewicz
- Laboratoire Forme et Fonctionnement Humain, CeREF, Rue Trieu Kaisin 136, 6061 Montignies-sur-Sambre, Belgium; (N.D.); (C.D.S.); (J.P.)
| | | | - Frédéric Dierick
- Centre National de Rééducation Fonctionnelle et de Réadaptation—Rehazenter, Laboratoire d’Analyse du Mouvement et de la Posture (LAMP), 1 Rue André Vésale, 2674 Luxembourg, Luxembourg;
- Faculté des Sciences de la Motricité, UCLouvain, 1-2 Place Pierre de Coubertin, 1348 Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Telliez
- Laboratoire Péritox UMR_I 01, Institut d’Ingénierie de la Santé-UFR de Médecine, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Rue des Louvels, 80036 Amiens, France;
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Zakaria SF, Shafei MN, Arifin WN. Translation and Validation of the Risk Perception on Safety and Health Questionnaire Among Palm Oil Plantation Workers in Terengganu, Malaysia. Cureus 2023; 15:e44742. [PMID: 37809199 PMCID: PMC10555646 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Occupational safety and health are of utmost importance in the palm oil industry, particularly in Malaysia where palm oil plantation workers face various hazards. This study aimed to translate and validate a risk perception questionnaire specifically designed to assess the perceptions of safety and health risks among palm oil plantation workers in Terengganu, Malaysia. METHODOLOGY The original risk perception questionnaire, consisting of 22 items, was translated into the local language and culturally adapted. The translation process involved forward translation, expert panel discussions, and back translation to ensure linguistic equivalence. The translated questionnaire was then administered to a sample of palm oil plantation workers in Terengganu, Malaysia, for validation purposes. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess the model fitness of the questionnaire, and Cronbach's Alpha coefficient was calculated to determine the internal consistency reliability of the final model. RESULTS The translated risk perception questionnaire demonstrated good model fitness as indicated by CFA results (X2=224, df=79, p-value<0.0001, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA)=0.07, goodness of fit index (GFI)=0.929, comparative fit index (CFI)=0.902). The questionnaire's final version has one factor comprising 13 items, selected based on factor loadings and theoretical relevance. The internal consistency reliability of the 13-item questionnaire was satisfactory, with a Cronbach's Alpha coefficient of α=0.77. CONCLUSION The 13-item risk perception questionnaire demonstrated a good model fit and acceptable internal consistency reliability. It shows that the questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool to evaluate the level of risk perception on safety and health among palm oil plantation workers in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syahrul Faiz Zakaria
- Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, MYS
| | - Mohd Nazri Shafei
- Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, MYS
| | - Wan Nor Arifin
- Biostatistics and Research Methodology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, MYS
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Baek S, Park J, Kyoung Kang E, Kim G, Kim H, Park HW. Association Between Ergonomic Burden Assessed Using 20-Item Agricultural Work-Related Ergonomic Risk Questionnaire and Shoulder, Low Back, and Leg Pain in Korean Farmers. J Agromedicine 2023; 28:532-544. [PMID: 36748360 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2023.2176958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the agricultural ergonomic burden in Korean farmers and to analyze its correlation with musculoskeletal pain. METHODS In total, 1001 farmers (525 females and 476 males; mean age, 59.6±7.5years) who owned or rented a farm and belonged to an agricultural cooperative unit were recruited. Ergonomic burdens were assessed using a 20-item Agricultural Work-related Ergonomic Risk Questionnaire (20 agricultural works). The presence of musculoskeletal pain (shoulder, low back, and leg/foot), Farm Stressor Inventory, subjective stress index, and agricultural workload (low, moderate, somewhat hard, or hard) were collected using structured questionnaires. RESULTS Factor analysis of the Agricultural Work-related Ergonomic Risk Questionnaire revealed a four-factor solution: neck and upper limb, trunk and push - pull, machine and heavy lifting, and repetitive trauma. Cronbach's alpha was greater than 0.65. For 18 of the 20 items, there was a significant association with the Farm Stressor Inventory, subjective stress index, and agricultural workload. The most frequent ergonomic burdens were squatting (51.2%), highly repetitive wrist movements (53.5%), shoulder flexion at 45-90° (51.2%), and trunk flexion or twisting at≥45° (48.8%). Ergonomic burdens were significantly different in 13 items between sexes. The musculoskeletal pain was associated with increased agricultural burdens in 10 items in male farmers and 14 items in female farmers. CONCLUSION Increased agricultural ergonomic burdens were associated with musculoskeletal pain. Ergonomic burden showed different patterns between male and female farmers, with female farmers appearing to be more affected by ergonomic burden than male farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sora Baek
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kangwon National University Hospital, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea.,Center for Farmers' Safety and Health, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Jintae Park
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kangwon National University Hospital, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Eun Kyoung Kang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kangwon National University Hospital, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Gowun Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kangwon National University Hospital, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea.,Center for Farmers' Safety and Health, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Hyocher Kim
- National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Korea
| | - Hee-Won Park
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kangwon National University Hospital, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea.,Center for Farmers' Safety and Health, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, Korea
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5
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Das B. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in agriculture: Ergonomics risk assessment and its prevention among Indian farmers. Work 2023; 76:225-241. [PMID: 36806533 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indian farmers have musculoskeletal disorders as agriculture is a physically demanding occupation. OBJECTIVES The main aim of this study is to identify ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among different groups of farmers. The other objective is to investigate how MSDs affect farmers' daily lives and interfere with their activities. METHODS Farmers were evaluated for the repetitiveness of work and MSDs using the standard Nordic questionnaire, ergonomic assessment tool (REBA), and ART tool. RESULTS Low back portions were the most affected body parts, followed by the knees (OR = 0.352; 95% CI = 0.280-0.598), shoulder (OR = 0.657; 95% CI = 0.405-1.066), neck (OR = 0.510; 95% CI = 0.350-0.743), ankle or foot (OR = 0.815; 95% CI = 0.556-1.196), and upper back region (OR = 0.681; 95% CI = 0.463-1.002). The REBA method found that most of the postures in farming are very dangerous. The ART tool showed that most of the activities are repetitive. Working long hours (90%) and monotony at work (87.5%) are the main psychosocial factors, followed by pressure to finish within a given timeframe (71.4%) and injuries related to MSDs. CONCLUSION Farmers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders in various body parts (lower back, knee, neck, shoulder, and upper back) due to squatting, stooping, and other constrained working postures during agricultural activities. rolonged working hours, repetitive movements, and MMH are ergonomic risk factors forFurthermore, p MSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banibrata Das
- Department Of Physiology, South Calcutta Girls' College University of Calcutta, 72 Sarat Bose Road, Kolkata-700025, India. Emails: ;
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Baxter EM, Moustsen VA, Goumon S, Illmann G, Edwards SA. Transitioning from crates to free farrowing: A roadmap to navigate key decisions. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:998192. [PMID: 36452143 PMCID: PMC9701704 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.998192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There are animal welfare concerns about the continued use of permanent crating systems for farrowing and lactating sows, which is the most prevalent maternity system in global pig production. Greater societal attention in recent years has culminated in changes (or proposed changes) to regulations as well as market-driven initiatives to move away from crated systems. Transitioning from farrowing crates to systems that allow the sow greater freedom of movement and behavioral expression requires a number of key decisions, with various trade-offs apparent when trying to balance the needs of different stakeholders. This review discusses these decisions based on common questions asked by farmers, policy makers and other stakeholders when deciding on a new system to build/approve. Based on the latest scientific evidence and practical insight, decisions such as: whether to retrofit an existing barn or build a new one, what spatial dimensions are necessary per sow place, whether to adopt free farrowing or temporary crating, how to provide substrate/enrichment and be hygienic and environmentally friendly, and how to optimize the human inputs and transition between systems are considered. The aim of this paper is to provide a roadmap for those interested in uptake of higher welfare systems and practices, as well as to highlight areas requiring further optimization and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M. Baxter
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Animal and Veterinary Sciences Group, Scotland's Rural College, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sébastien Goumon
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gudrun Illmann
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Prague, Czechia
- Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Sandra A. Edwards
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Batista GDA, Locks F, Beltrán Picón SP, Correia HJ, Ferraz ZCM, Pitangui ACR, Cappato de Araújo R. Association between the time of physical laboral activities and leisure over shoulder pain in fruitculture workers: A cross-sectional study. Work 2022; 74:565-574. [PMID: 36314180 DOI: 10.3233/wor-210851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fruitculture workers are exposed to shoulder pain disorders due to long working times in overhead activities. OBJECTIVE This study aims to analyze the association between the time of physical work and leisure activities over the perception of shoulder pain intensity in fruit growing workers. METHODS This is a descriptive and correlational cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 180 fruit-growing workers. Multivariable logistic regression was used, with an estimate of the Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals. The dependent variable: Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) (0-10 points), was categorized as low and high, with cutoff points of NPRS > 3 and NPRS > 4, and was associated with the independent variables (level of physical activity, personal, labour and psychosocial). RESULTS Workers which are insufficiently active in leisure time are more likely to report high-intensity shoulder pain, NPRS > 3 (OR: 2.39; p = 0.049) and NPRS > 4 (OR: 2.85; p = 0.036). In addition, working time in overhead activities is a risk factor for high-intensity pain for NPRS > 3 and NPRS > 4 (OR = 1.01; p < 0.001). Underweight and normal-weight workers were less likely to report shoulder pain in NPRS > 3 (OR = 0.35; p = 0.020) and in NPRS > 4 (OR = 0.20; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Fruit-growing workers had a high prevalence of severe shoulder pain. In addition, workers who are insufficiently active at leisure, overweight and obese are more likely to report severe pain. It was observed that overhead tasks increase the chances of reporting high-intensity shoulder pain among workers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francisco Locks
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation and Functional Performance, University of Pernambuco, Petrolina, Brazil.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Pernambuco, Petrolina, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Ana Carolina Rodarti Pitangui
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation and Functional Performance, University of Pernambuco, Petrolina, Brazil.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Pernambuco, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Cappato de Araújo
- Associated Graduate Program in Physical Education, UPE/UFPB, Recife, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation and Functional Performance, University of Pernambuco, Petrolina, Brazil.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Pernambuco, Petrolina, Brazil
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Tatar V, Yazicioglu O, Ayvaz B. A novel risk assessment model for work-related musculoskeletal disorders in tea harvesting workers. JOURNAL OF INTELLIGENT & FUZZY SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3233/jifs-222652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are the most common occupational health problems in agriculture workers due to repetitive and excessive force movement activities involved in their job processes. The Fine-Kinney method has been commonly used as a quantitative evaluation method in risk assessment studies. Classically, the risk value via Fine–Kinney is calculated by the mathematical multiplication irrespective of the degree of importance of each risk parameter (probability (P), exposure (E), and consequence (C)). Hence, a novel risk management model was proposed based on integrating Fine-Kinney and spherical fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS. First, each risk parameter is weighted using the spherical fuzzy AHP (SF-AHP). Second, the spherical fuzzy TOPSIS (SF-TOPSIS) method is used for hazard ranking. The proposed model is applied to evaluate risks in tea harvesting workers for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Subsequently, a sensitivity analysis is carried out to test the proposed model. Finally, we compare the proposed model’s applicability and effectiveness with the spherical fuzzy COmbinative Distance-based ASsessment (SF-CODAS) method based on Fine-Kinney. The ranking similarity between the proposed Fine-Kinney-based SF-TOPSIS and SF-CODAS methods is checked by applying Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, in which 92% of rankings are matched.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veysel Tatar
- Istanbul Commerce University, Institute of Science and Technology, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Osman Yazicioglu
- Istanbul Commerce University, Faculty of Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Berk Ayvaz
- Istanbul Commerce University, Faculty of Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Hassani M, Hesampour R, Bartnicka J, Monjezi N, Ezbarami SM. Evaluation of working conditions, work postures, musculoskeletal disorders and low back pain among sugar production workers. Work 2022; 73:273-289. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-210873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: It is generally agreed that musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a severe health concern, particularly for agricultural laborers. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to identify risk factors and work-related disorders among agricultural workers at Amirkabir agro-industry company in Iran. METHOD: A total of 158 workers, of which 66 were manual harvesting workers (four postures), 40 were fertilizer transportation workers (three postures), and 52 were spraying workers (one posture), were included in the study. The research used questionnaires to collect data, and the postures were analyzed using 3DSSPP software. Related risk factors such as age, body mass index, work experience, working hours, and sports activity were analyzed. RESULTS: The incidence rate of lower back pain (94%), knee pain (82%), neck pain (69%), upper-back (63%), and shoulder (63%) were calculated. The logistic regression revealed that working hours and sports activities are significantly correlated to the wrist/hand and neck MSD with 5.62 and 6.38 times more likely among manual harvesting workers. The 3DSSPP software estimated that the lower back pain, especially in the first posture, for manure transportation workers was very high. Maximum L5-S1 compression, shear, and moment forces in the first posture among manure transportation workers were 7113 N and 472 N, -381 N-m, respectively. CONCLUSION: The 3DSSPP results also illustrated that compression, shear, and moment forces exceeded the NIOSH limit for the other postures. After interventions, compression, shear, and moment forces among all farm workers decreased. These findings emphasize that farm workers need to be under surveillance continuously at their workstations where interventions and improvement in specific tasks are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hassani
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Hesampour
- Department of Agricultural Machinery and Mechanization, Ramin University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mollasani, Iran
| | - Joanna Bartnicka
- Department of Organization and Management, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Nasim Monjezi
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sahebeh Mirzaei Ezbarami
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Islamic Azad University Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
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Du Y, Baccaglini L, Johnson A, Puvvula J, Rautiainen RH. Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal Discomfort in Farmers and Ranchers in the U.S. Central States. J Agromedicine 2022; 27:232-244. [PMID: 33645460 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2021.1893880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Agricultural work involves ergonomic and psychosocial strain, which contribute to musculoskeletal conditions. The aim of this study was to assess if specific ergonomic, psychosocial, and preventive factors are linked to musculoskeletal pain or discomfort symptoms (MSS) in farmers and ranchers. We analyzed data from the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health survey that was conducted in 2018 in a seven-state region of the central United States. MSS were assessed with questions from the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. The survey included questions on demographic, ergonomic, psychosocial and preventive factors. Farm production variables were added from the Farm Market iD database. We analyzed the data using Generalized Estimating Equations. The overall prevalence of MSS for all body sites combined was 59% among 4,354 farmers and ranchers who responded (19% response rate). After controlling for age, sex, and operator status, three factors (high stress level, sleep deprivation, and exhaustion/fatigue) showed the strongest associations with MSS in any body site, with adjusted odds ratios (OR) ranging from 4.8 to 5.6. Forceful exertions, repetitive tasks, awkward postures, frequent manual labor, and vibration were also significantly associated with MSS, with adjusted ORs ranging from 1.8 to 3.3. Recommended preventive techniques were not protective for MSS. New effective strategies are needed to reduce the high burden of musculoskeletal outcomes among farmers and agricultural workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Du
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Lorena Baccaglini
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Anthony Johnson
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jagadeesh Puvvula
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Risto H Rautiainen
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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11
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Gorce P, Jacquier-Bret J, Merbah J. A predictive model to quantify joint torques and support reaction forces when using a smartphone while standing with support. ERGONOMICS 2022; 65:531-545. [PMID: 34346834 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2021.1963845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The present study had a dual objective: (1) to present and validate a predictive model of standing posture in the sagittal plane, joint torques and support forces for a smartphone user built from biomechanical principles; (2) propose risk scales for joint torques and reaction forces based on simulations in order to use them into the musculoskeletal disorders prevention. Comparison of the modelled data with experimental measurements (400 tested postures with sample size verification) for calling and texting tasks highlights the model's ability to correctly estimate posture and reaction forces on the ground. The model was able to provide estimates of the range of variation of each parameter for a wide range of environmental conditions as a function of the user body mass index (setting between 12.5 and 50). Joint torques risk scales have been constructed, especially for shoulder and elbow, to characterise the risks incurred by the users. Practitioner summary: The proposed model enables the postures, joint torques and reaction forces to be estimated from subject's body mass index and environmental configuration without resorting to experimentation, which is relevant in industry. This approach allows the proposition of new scales based on joint torques to reinforce the recommendations for MSDs prevention. Abbreviations: BMI: body mass index; LUBA: postural loading on the upper body assessment; MSDs: musculoskeletal disorders; RULA: rapid upper limb assessment; WHO: World Health Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Gorce
- International Institut of Biomechanics and Surgical Ergonomics, Université de Toulon, Toulon, France
| | | | - Johan Merbah
- Euro-Mediterranean Institute of Research and Innovation in Ergonomics and Biomechanics for the Connected Human - ErBio-Connect - CS 10121, Hyeres, France
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12
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Participatory Ergonomic Interventions for Improving Agricultural Work Environment: A Case Study in a Farming Organization of Korea. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12042263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Farmers are often exposed to risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders through lifting, carrying heavy loads, and sustained or repeated full-body bending. Several relevant studies on ergonomic interventions have been conducted for specific agricultural tasks, such as harvesting and pruning, by experts without involving farmers. This study introduces ergonomic interventions to mitigate risk factors in a farming organization that cultivates peaches as the main crop based on ergonomic analysis of the entire peach farming cycle; subjective and objective evaluations of the proposed interventions are also performed. The ergonomic analysis and interventions were established based on consultations provided by an ergonomist, the government, and the organization members. Engineering controls were introduced for powered carts, sorters, and stools to reduce load carrying and awkward postures; moreover, thermal or cooling vests, winter shoes and gloves, and farmer hats were provided to alleviate cold or heat stresses. Administrative controls such as education/training and adjusting work–rest cycles were also recommended after considering the characteristics of the risk factors identified. The scores of the questionnaire survey from the organization members were high (>4.1 out of 5 for five questions), and postural loads for unstable postures by RULA were significantly reduced so as to avoid fast or immediate changes for the postures or working methods assessed. The study results are expected to help promote farmers’ health and enhance farming efficiency.
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13
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Ergonomic Task Analysis for Prioritization of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Mango-Harvesting Farmers. SAFETY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/safety8010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper proposes a mixed ergonomic tool analysis algorithm to prioritize work-related musculoskeletal problems. This study is a cross-sectional study assessing the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) with associated risk factors among 14 male mango-harvesting farmers (all right-handed) with the mean age of 52.28 ± 7.75 years. Four tasks following mango-harvesting processes were analyzed: (1) mango harvesting, (2) mango transporting, (3) mango size sorting, and (4) mango weighing and transporting to the truck. The perceived physical exertion while working on a mango-harvesting farm was based on the Borg CR-10 with a modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. Physical risk level due to awkward posture was evaluated by the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), and risk due to whole-body posture in association with the level of WMSDs risk was evaluated by the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) score sheets. The subjective feelings of fatigue and posture analysis were normalized and combined using the theorem of power superposition to establish the fatigue effective index (FEI) for determining priorities to solve ergonomics-based task problems. This study indicated clearly that WMSDs are highly prevalent in mango-harvesting farmers, whereas the highest prevalence of WMSDs was reported in the right shoulder, right upper arm and lower back. The result provided the FEI of mango-harvesting farmers, ranked as follows: (1) size-sorting task, (2) weight-lifting task, (3) harvesting task, and (4) transporting task. The authors concluded that mango size sorting should be the first task to be improved to resolve the muscle fatigue problems among male mango-harvesting farmers.
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14
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Hertling S, Loos F, Matziolis G, Kirschner I, Graul I. [The influence of occupational activity on diseases of the musculoskeletal system of the upper extremity]. DER ORTHOPADE 2021; 51:669-676. [PMID: 34939146 PMCID: PMC9352613 DOI: 10.1007/s00132-021-04199-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Einleitung Erkrankungen des Bewegungsapparates der oberen Extremität sind Grund für zunehmende krankheitsbedingte Fehlzeiten bei Erwerbspersonen. Zielsetzung Ziel dieser Studie ist es, den Einfluss der Berufsabhängigkeit auf die Entstehung von Erkrankungen des Bewegungsapparates der oberen Extremität zu untersuchen und neben berufsspezifischen Faktoren, gesundheitsbezogene Risiken darzustellen. Material und Methoden Es wurden 1070 Patienten eingeschlossen, bei denen zwischen 2016 und 2019 bei einer Läsion der Rotatorenmanschette (RM) eine operative RM-Rekonstruktion durchgeführt wurde. Die relevanten Daten wurden retrospektiv aus dem Krankenhausinformationssystem dokumentiert. Die Berufszweige der Patienten wurden nach der Klassifikation der Berufe 2010 (KldB 2010) eingeteilt und mit routinemäßig erfassten und anonymisierten, frei verfügbaren Daten (Statistisches Bundesamt, Bundesagentur für Arbeit) verglichen. Ergebnisse Von den 1070 Patienten waren 844 Patienten im arbeitsfähigen Alter. Die Altersstruktur der einzelnen Bereiche zeigten keine signifikanten Unterschiede. Anhand der Vergleiche der Patientendaten mit der Bevölkerung ergaben sich signifikant höhere RM-Erkrankungsraten in den Bereichen Land‑, Forst- und Tierwirtschaft sowie Gartenbau (p = 0,003); Bau, Architektur, Vermessung und Gebäudetechnik (p < 0,001); Verkehr, Logistik, Schutz und Sicherheit (p < 0,001) und Unternehmensorganisation, Buchhaltung, Recht und Verwaltung (p < 0,001). Ein signifikant reduziertes Risiko bestand in Naturwissenshaft, Geografie und Informatik (p = 0,015); kaufmännische Dienstleistungen, Warenhandel, Vertrieb, Hotel und Tourismus (p < 0,001); Gesundheit, Soziales, Lehre und Erziehung (p < 0,001). Schlussfolgerung Die Prävalenz von RM-Läsionen zeigt einen statistischen Zusammenhang zur ausgeführten Berufstätigkeit in Abhängigkeit von den Berufszweigen. Neben der Berufsabhängigkeit spielen geschlechtsspezifische Arbeitsfaktoren eine Rolle. Schulterschmerzen bei Erwerbstätigkeiten sollten differenzierter betrachtet werden. Dadurch sollen gezielt Präventivmaßnahmen eingeleitet werden können, um vorzubeugen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Hertling
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Frauenheilkunde und Fortpflanzungsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Deutschland. .,Waldkliniken Eisenberg, Deutsches Zentrum für Orthopädie, Campus Eisenberg, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Eisenberg, Deutschland. .,, Heinrich-Schütz-Straße 16, 07548, Gera, Deutschland.
| | - Franziska Loos
- Praxis für Orthopädie und Schulterchirurgie, 04177, Leipzig, Deutschland
| | - Georg Matziolis
- Waldkliniken Eisenberg, Deutsches Zentrum für Orthopädie, Campus Eisenberg, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Eisenberg, Deutschland
| | - Isabella Kirschner
- Waldkliniken Eisenberg, Deutsches Zentrum für Orthopädie, Campus Eisenberg, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Eisenberg, Deutschland
| | - Isabel Graul
- Waldkliniken Eisenberg, Deutsches Zentrum für Orthopädie, Campus Eisenberg, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Eisenberg, Deutschland.,Klinik für Unfall‑, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Deutschland
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15
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Chen MY. Misperception of cardiometabolic risks and health needs among agriculture and aquaculture workers in Taiwan. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs 2021; 20:383-388. [PMID: 33620459 DOI: 10.1093/eurjcn/zvaa013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Many people work in agriculture and aquaculture. Owing to the specific working environments and climate changes, some literatures indicated that agriculture and aquaculture workers have cardiovascular diseases. It is important to attain sustainable development goal for these workers. However, few studies have investigated the factors associated with cardiometabolic risks and their perception among these workers. To explore the health needs and perception of cardiometabolic risks and associated factors among agriculture and aquaculture workers. METHODS AND RESULTS A community-based, cross-sectional study design was used. This study was part of a nurse-led health-promotion programme designed to examine the health needs of agriculture and aquaculture workers between March and December 2019 in Yunlin County, Taiwan. This study was conducted in 30 rural villages. Health screening for five cardiometabolic risks was identified by a local hospital collaborated with the study. Six hundred and fifty-six participants with a mean age of 66 years completed this study. The mean number of cardiometabolic risk factors was 2.6, and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 54.1%. Most participants had misperceptions regarding their abnormal biomarkers. Age, education level, female gender, increased biomarker misperception (P < 0.001), and betel nut chewing (P < 0.01) were the determinant factors associated with cardiometabolic risks. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrated a high prevalence of cardiometabolic risks, unhealthy behaviours, and misperceptions of cardiometabolic risk among the study population. This study highlights the need for clinicians and primary healthcare providers to attempt to increase the level of cardiometabolic risk literacy by initiating culturally tailored health-promotion programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Yen Chen
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, No. 2, Chiapu Rd. West Sec., Putz City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan.,School of Nursing, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Research Fellow, Department of Cardiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Yunlin, Taiwan
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16
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Thamsuwan O, Milosavljevic S, Srinivasan D, Trask C. Potential exoskeleton uses for reducing low back muscular activity during farm tasks. Am J Ind Med 2020; 63:1017-1028. [PMID: 32926450 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the sustainability of the agricultural workforce has been threatened by the high prevalence of back pain, developing effective interventions to reduce its burden within farming will contribute to the long-term health and productivity of workers. Passive back-support exoskeletons are being explored as an intervention to reduce the physical demands on the back muscles, and consequently mitigate the risk of back pain, in many industrial sectors. METHODS This study investigated whether exoskeleton use could reduce farmers' low back muscle load. Electromyography was used to evaluate exoskeleton use in field and laboratory settings. A total of 14 farmers (13 males and 1 female) with a mean age of 49 (SD = 12) years and 6 female nonfarmers (mean age 28, SD = 5 years) performed a standardized set of tasks that included symmetric and asymmetric lifting and sustained trunk flexion. Following the standardized tasks, 14 farmers also performed regular, real-world, farm tasks with and without use of the exoskeleton at their farms. RESULTS Exoskeleton use decreased back muscular load during farming activities up to 65%, 56%, and 48% in static, median, and peak muscle activity, respectively. This indicates potential benefits of exoskeleton use to help farmers work under less muscular load. Paradoxically, exoskeleton use during standardized tasks increased muscle activity for some participants. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the potential effects of using passive exoskeletons in agriculture through observational and experimental research, and is among the first that explores the potential for using exoskeletons during actual work tasks in farm settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornwipa Thamsuwan
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Canada
| | | | - Divya Srinivasan
- Grado Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg Virginia USA
| | - Catherine Trask
- Ergonomics Division, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Health Systems Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm Sweden
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17
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Narimoto LR, Costa Belussi SEA, Camarotto JA. Design-in-use applied to Brazilian agriculture: The case of citrus and sugarcane harvesting. Work 2020; 65:689-698. [PMID: 32116267 DOI: 10.3233/wor-203101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Harvesting is one of the most critical phases in any crop once it determines the quality of raw material obtained and future production for the next seasons. Sugarcane crops are more uniform allowing the complete mechanization of harvesting. Citrus crops, on the other hand, present variability and require special handling to preserve quality so the harvesting process remains manual preponderantly. OBJECTIVE The aim of this research was to explore how the distinct characteristics of sugarcane and citrus crops influence the design of respective instruments, promoting a discussion about design-in-use in Brazilian fields and its role to improve productivity and safety. METHODS Multiple case studies were conducted at 9 sites: 3 sites of sugarcane crops and 6 sites of citrus crops. Task analysis, observations, interviews, questionnaires and video footage were undertaken at each site. RESULTS The modifications made by the harvesting teams in all studied sites aimed the appropriateness of objects to local conditions and real needs, transforming them in instruments, improving reliability, safety, health and productivity. CONCLUSIONS In agriculture, a sector where working conditions still need to be significantly improved especially in developing countries, design-in-use appears as a solution for the problems faced by workers in the field, as an essential mean to maintain health and productivity at work.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - João Alberto Camarotto
- Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
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18
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Capodaglio EM. Participatory ergonomics for the reduction of musculoskeletal exposure of maintenance workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2020; 28:376-386. [PMID: 32343204 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2020.1761670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) is a prevalent risk among those working in the maintenance of machinery and equipment for industry. Participatory ergonomics (PE) in the workplace embodies a solid strategy for the implementation of MSD prevention programs. This practical case describes a PE project implemented to improve MSD prevention strategies for the safety of maintenance workers. Experienced workers and maintenance workers employed in an Italian company for the industrial processing of wool have been actively involved in the risk assessment, in the proposal of improvement interventions and in the proposal of new preventive strategies. Ergonomic training and guidance helped the workers to have a proactive role in the prevention process. PE can help in the preventive management of critical activities of maintenance, through the empowerment of workers, the identification of targeted and feasible solutions and by using ergonomics as a basis for improving health and safety at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edda Maria Capodaglio
- Occupational Therapy and Ergonomics Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCSS, Italy
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19
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A Review on Ergonomics in Agriculture. Part II: Mechanized Operations. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10103484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) have long been recognized as the most common risks that operation of agricultural machineries poses, thus, undermining the ability to labor and quality of life. The purpose of this investigation was to thoroughly review the recent scholarly literature on ergonomics in agricultural mechanized operations; Methods: Electronic database research over the last ten years was conducted based on specific inclusion criteria. Furthermore, an assessment of the methodological quality and strength of evidence of potential risk factors causing MSDs was performed; Results: The results demonstrated that ergonomics in agriculture is an interdisciplinary topic and concerns both developed and developing countries. The machines with driving seats seem to be associated with painful disorders of the low back, while handheld machines with disorders of the upper extremities. The main roots of these disorders are the whole-body vibration (WBV) and hand-arm transmitted vibration (HATV). However, personal characteristics, awkward postures, mechanical shocks and seat discomfort were also recognized to cause MSDs; Conclusions: The present ergonomic interventions aim mainly at damping of vibrations and improving the comfort of operator. Nevertheless, more collaborative efforts among physicians, ergonomists, engineers and manufacturers are required in terms of both creating new ergonomic technologies and increasing the awareness of workers for the involved risk factors.
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20
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Roquelaure Y, Jégo S, Geoffroy-Perez B, Chazelle E, Descatha A, Evanoff B, Garlantézec R, Bodin J. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among Male French Farmers and Agricultural Workers: Is It Only Associated With Physical Exposure? Saf Health Work 2020; 11:33-40. [PMID: 32206372 PMCID: PMC7078553 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exploratory study to investigate whether co-exposure to physical wrist stressors and chemicals is associated with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in French male farmers and agricultural workers. Methods Cross-sectional study of 711 men aged 30–65 years and working as either farmers or agricultural workers in 2009–2010 within a cohort covered by the French Agricultural Workers' and Farmers' Mutual Benefit Fund. CTS and exposure to physical wrist stressors and chemicals were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. Associations between CTS and personal/medical factors, exposure to physical wrist stressors, exposure to chemicals, and co-exposure to physical wrist stressors and chemicals were studied using multivariate logistic regression models. Results Forty-four men {5.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 4.0–7.7]} reported that they had suffered from unilateral/bilateral CTS during the last 12 months. CTS was associated with age, current smoking [odds ratio (OR) = 2.1 (1.0–4.5)], and exposure to physical wrist stressors [OR = 2.6 (1.1–5.9)]. An association was found between CTS and co-exposure to physical wrist stressors and chemicals [OR = 3.3 (0.8–14.3), p = 0.044] in comparison with the no-exposure group. Conclusions This exploratory study shows an association of CTS with exposure to biomechanical wrist stressors in male farmers and agricultural workers and suggests an association of CTS with co-exposure to physical wrist stressors and chemicals. Owing to the limitations of the study, this result must be confirmed by a prospective study with objective assessments of the outcome and exposure before drawing conclusions on the possible synergistic effects of mechanical stressors and chemicals on the impairment of the median nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Roquelaure
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Sylvaine Jégo
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Béatrice Geoffroy-Perez
- Santé Publique France, French National Public Health Agency, Direction of Occupational Health, F-94415, Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Emilie Chazelle
- Santé Publique France, French National Public Health Agency, Direction of Occupational Health, F-94415, Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Alexis Descatha
- INSERM UMS 011, Population Based Epidemiological Cohorts Unit and University Versailles St-Quentin, F-78035, Versailles, France
| | - Bradley Evanoff
- Washington University School of Medicine, Division of General Medical Sciences, St. Louis, MO, 63310, USA
| | - Ronan Garlantézec
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Julie Bodin
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-49000, Angers, France
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21
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A Review on Ergonomics in Agriculture. Part I: Manual Operations. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10061905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Agriculture involves several harmful diseases. Among the non-fatal ones, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most prevalent, as they have reached epidemic proportions. The main aim of this investigation is to systematically review the major risk factors regarding MSDs as well as evaluate the existing ergonomic interventions. Methods: The search engines of Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect were used to identify relevant articles during the last decade. The imposed exclusive criteria assured the accuracy and current progress in this field. Results: It was concluded that MSDs affect both developed and developing countries, thus justifying the existing global concern. Overall, the most commonly studied task was harvesting, followed by load carrying, pruning, planting, and other ordinary manual operations. Repetitive movements in awkward postures, such as stooping and kneeling; individual characteristics; as well as improper tool design were observed to contribute to the pathogenesis of MSDs. Furthermore, low back disorders were reported as the main disorder. Conclusions: The present ergonomic interventions seem to attenuate the MSDs to a great extent. However, international reprioritization of the safety and health measures is required in agriculture along with increase of the awareness of the risk factors related to MSDs.
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22
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Khachadourian V, Arah OA. Place of Residence, Working Conditions and the Burden of Back Pain among Hired Farmworkers in the United States. J Agromedicine 2019; 25:302-311. [PMID: 31590618 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2019.1674228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Back pain is the leading occupational health problem among agricultural workers. Current study aimed to assess the burden of farm work-related back pain and to investigate its associations with living residence location and work conditions among farmworkers. Methods: We used the National Agricultural Workers Survey (NAWS) data from 1999 to 2004, 2008-2010, and 2014. Work-related back pain was defined as a back pain that was developed when performing farm work in the 12 months prior to the interview, and it caused pain or discomfort for at least five consecutive days. To assess the associations of place of residence and working conditions (i.e. work equipment and access to toilet and water for washing hands at work) with back pain, we analyzed the data using mixed-effects logistic regression models while adjusting for age, gender, race, birthplace (US vs. foreign country), education, marital status, work authorization (yes vs. no), below poverty income, whether the worker was hired by a farm labor contractor or not, and weekly working hours. Results: The standardized annual back pain prevalence during the study period ranged from 2.6% to 11.3%. In the adjusted model, farmworkers who lived in a residence located on the farm, who did not have access to toilet at work, and who paid for work equipment had higher odds of back pain than their counterparts. Conclusion: Back pain is particularly common among farmworkers with poor working and living conditions. Interventions should target the identified high-risk groups to mitigate their burden of back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahe Khachadourian
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) , Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Onyebuchi A Arah
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) , Los Angeles, CA, USA.,UCLA Center for Health Policy Research , Los Angeles, CA, USA.,California Center for Population Research, UCLA , Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Statistics, UCLA College of Letters and Science , Los Angeles, CA, USA
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23
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Fethke NB, Schall MC, Merlino LA, Chen H, Branch CA, Ramaswamy M. Whole-Body Vibration and Trunk Posture During Operation of Agricultural Machinery. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:1123-1133. [PMID: 30239568 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) is common among agricultural workers and is associated with musculoskeletal health outcomes such as low back pain. Little is known, however, about the characteristics of exposure experienced during actual production practices. We measured WBV levels during agricultural machinery use among a sample of farmers (n = 55) performing routine agricultural activities and explored machinery attributes that may explain WBV summary measures. We also measured trunk posture to provide additional information about physical exposures during machinery operation. Measurements were made on-farm and during actual work conditions of a sample of agricultural machines (n = 112), including tractors, combines, heavy utility vehicles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Results indicated the presence of high levels of vibration (median frequency-weighted root-mean-square acceleration of approximately 0.8 m s-2) with time signatures that include high-amplitude mechanical shocks (median crest factor of nearly 23). Compared to other machinery types, combines exhibited the lowest WBV levels and among the most favorable trunk postures. Substantial variability was observed in both the WBV and trunk posture summary measures, suggesting for future studies that alternative sampling strategies are needed to fully capture temporal patterns of machinery use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B Fethke
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mark C Schall
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, Shelby Center Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Linda A Merlino
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Howard Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, Wiggins Hall Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Cassidy A Branch
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Maya Ramaswamy
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Suite Iowa City, IA, USA
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24
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Fels DI, Blackler A, Cook D, Foth M. Ergonomics in apiculture: A case study based on inspecting movable frame hives for healthy bee activities. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01973. [PMID: 31334369 PMCID: PMC6617107 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The agricultural sector suffers from high risk of injury and damage to human health. There is considerable research not only identifying these risks but also finding ways to mitigate them. Beekeeping or apiculture, recognised as part of this sector, has many risk factors such as heavy lifting, high degree of manual materials handling, twisting, and awkward positioning common to all agriculture areas. It also has some unique risks such as those resulting from bee stings and smokers. However, there is much less attention focused on the health and safety of apiculture to the human beekeepers, and much more attention focused on bee health and safety. An ergonomics case study on beekeeping inspection tasks involving three independent, local beekeepers showed that many tasks involve awkward positions of the body, arms and hands, excessive lifting well beyond recommended weight limits, eye strain, and chemical and sting exposure. In addition, beekeepers are more interested in bee and hive health rather than reducing human-centred risk factors such as those due to excessive lifting. Standard ergonomics interventions such as a magnifier inspection and lift assist systems as well as interventions unique to beekeeping such as a smokeless method of calming bees are recommended. The beekeeping industry seems to have been forgotten in the modernisation of technology and agricultural practices. This paper offers some initial insights into possible points for research, development and improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- D I Fels
- Ted Rogers School of Information Technology Management, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St., Toronto, Canada
| | - A Blackler
- School of Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - D Cook
- School of Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - M Foth
- School of Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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25
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Development of an Occupational Health Safe Return to Work Prototype Application and Ergonomics Dataset for Agricultural Tasks. SAFETY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/safety5020040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Serious, restrictive, non-fatal injuries are commonplace in large animal agriculture including in pork and dairy production. Primary care clinicians often have few resources to facilitate workers’ return to work and have difficulties communicating work restrictions/limitations to workers and their employers. This project developed SafeReturnToWork.org, a web-based platform to aid physicians and farmers in farmworkers’ timely and safe return to work. This prototype characterizes the duties of dairy and pork workers, and facilitates the creation of applicable light duty job assemblies for farmers and farmworkers by physicians and other healthcare providers. Guided by interviews and focus groups with physicians, farmers, and farmworkers, the system was developed for use with workplace injuries that could eventually link to human resource department systems, an electronic health record, or expand to other industries beyond agriculture.
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26
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Shezi B, Naidoo RN, Muttoo S, Mathee A, Alfers L, Dobson R, Ndlovu P, Street RA. Informal-sector occupational hazards: an observational workplace assessment of the traditional medicine trade in South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2019; 27:562-569. [DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2019.1602329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Busisiwe Shezi
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
| | - Rajen N. Naidoo
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Sheena Muttoo
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Angela Mathee
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
| | - Laura Alfers
- Women in Informal Employment: Globalizing and Organizing, South Africa
| | | | | | - Renee A. Street
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
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Budhathoki NK, Zander KK. Socio-Economic Impact of and Adaptation to Extreme Heat and Cold of Farmers in the Food Bowl of Nepal. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E1578. [PMID: 31064089 PMCID: PMC6539874 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16091578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Farmers worldwide have to deal with increasing climate variability and weather extremes. Most of the previous research has focused on impacts on agricultural production, but little is known about the related social and economic impacts on farmers. In this study, we investigated the social and economic impact of extreme weather events (EWE) on farmers in Nepal, and explored how they coped with and adapted to heat waves and cold spells between 2012 and 2017. To address these aims, we conducted a survey of 350 farms randomly selected from the Bardiya and Banke districts of the Terai lowlands of Nepal. They were specifically asked to rate the impacts of extreme temperatures, as well as their effect on labour productivity and collective farmer health, and the detailed preventative measures they had implemented. About 84% of the farmers self-reported moderate or severe heat stress during the last five years, and about 85%, moderate or severe cold stress. Likewise, the majority of respondents reported that both farmer health and labour productivity had been compromised by EWEs. Productivity loss had a strong association with the perceived levels of heat and cold stress, which, in turn, were more likely to be reported by farmers with previous EWE experience. Potentially due to the increased care required during EWEs, those farmers with livestock reported increased heat and cold stress, as, surprisingly, did those who had implemented adaptation measures. Farmers seemed to be less prepared for potential threats of cold spells than heat waves, and therefore less likely to adopt coping strategies, since these are a recent phenomenon. This study identified some limitations. The cross sectional and self-reported data, as a common source of information to estimate health impact, level of heat/cold stress and labour productivity loss. Community-based education/community engagement programs could be developed to facilitate proactive adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanda Kaji Budhathoki
- Northern Institute, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Brinkin 0909, Darwin NT, Australia.
| | - Kerstin K Zander
- Northern Institute, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Brinkin 0909, Darwin NT, Australia.
- German Development Institute, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
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Weichelt B, Pena AA, Joyce J, Keifer M. Economic Evaluation and Systematic Review of Publicly Available Workers' Compensation Practice Details and Mod Rate Calculators Applied to Upper Midwest Agriculture. J Agromedicine 2019; 25:38-51. [PMID: 30940000 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2019.1593274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Agricultural employment is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. Workers' compensation coverage requirements for agricultural work vary from state to state, and experience modifier rates (E-mods) affecting insurance premiums sometimes vary drastically across state lines and according to claim severities and farm sizes. We proposed to develop an interactive software application that would educate farmers on the impact of employee time loss on annual E-mod factor change specific to their geographic location and farm size.Methods: We conducted a comparative analysis of workers' compensation formulations, including E-mods among Upper Midwestern states. We performed sensitivity analysis of the formulas to claim amount and payroll to highlight differences related to claim severity and to farm size.Results: The state to state variation and remarkable complexity of these formulas was confirmed. E-Mod factors are shown to increase substantially across states with both claim size and payroll, though are found to be similar across Wisconsin and Minnesota which were examined in detail.Conclusions: The findings confirm that creating a nationally applicable interactive educational software tool for farmers and ranchers to view hypothetical rate changes by inputting on-farm injury scenarios represents a significant challenge and that educational outreach coupled with the use of commercial software, especially as less costly options become available, may serve the role of minimizing misunderstandings by current producers as may other informational sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Weichelt
- National Farm Medicine Center, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI, USA
| | - Anita Alves Pena
- Department of Economics, Colorado State University, and Colorado School of Public Health, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Jeffrey Joyce
- Center for Human Genetics, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI, USA
| | - Matthew Keifer
- University of Washington and Puget Sound Veterans Administration, Seattle, WA, USA
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Weichelt B, Bendixsen C, Keifer M. Farm Owners and Workers as Key Informants in User-Centered Occupational Health Prototype Development: A Stakeholder-Engaged Project. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e9711. [PMID: 30694202 PMCID: PMC6371074 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.9711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cost of workplace injuries and illnesses significantly impacts the overall cost of health care and is a significant annual economic burden in the United States. Many dairy and pork farm owners in the Upper Midwest have expanded operations and taken on the role of manager and employer yet receive little training in injury prevention, farm safety, or workers' compensation programs and processes. Clinicians play a key role in the return to work of injured and ill farmers and farmworkers to their jobs, though little to no formal training is offered by medical schools. OBJECTIVE This stakeholder-engaged project aimed to develop a prototype application designed to assist clinicians in returning injured farmworkers to light-duty job assignments with their current employers and to assess farm owners' and managers' attitudes toward and barriers to adopting mobile health tools for themselves or their employees. METHODS We conducted 12 semistructured interviews with English-speaking farm owners and farmworkers from the Upper Midwest: 5 English-speaking and Spanish-speaking farmworker focus groups and 8 postproject interviews with farm owners that focused on attitudes and barriers to adoption of the developed software. Interviews and focus groups were audio recorded, and data were analyzed and thematically coded using audio coding. RESULTS Interviews and worker focus groups guided an iterative design and development cycle, which informed workflow design, button placement, and output sheets that offer specific light-duty farm work recommendations for the injured worker to discuss with his or her employer. CONCLUSIONS The development of a complex prototype intended to impact patient care is a significant undertaking. Reinventing a paper-based process that can eventually integrate with an electronic health record or a private company's human resources system requires substantial stakeholder input from each facet including patients, employers, and clinical care teams. The prototype is available for testing, but further research is needed in the form of clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of the process and the software's impact on patients and employers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Weichelt
- Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, National Farm Medicine Center, Marshfield, WI, United States
| | - Casper Bendixsen
- Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, National Farm Medicine Center, Marshfield, WI, United States
| | - Matthew Keifer
- University of Washington and Puget Sound Veterans Administration, Seattle, WA, United States
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Salleh NFM, Sukadarin EH, Khamis NK, Ramli R. Pattern of muscle contraction in different postures among Malaysia pineapple plantation workers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1088/1757-899x/469/1/012088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Observational Surveillance Approach to Detect Novel Work-Related Diseases and Hazards: An Application to a Belgian Occupational Health and Safety Database. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 60:e476-e483. [PMID: 30199412 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapid changes in working conditions give rise to new occupational health risks. We applied the Spectrosome approach, a network-based analysis, to investigate associations between disease and multiple occupational exposures. METHODS We investigated work and health's associations in a specific sector: the agricultural sector and for a specific and frequent health complaint: sore throat; using PRECUBE dataset of the Belgian Occupational Health and Safety, containing 381.615 occupational health observations. We compared the results of the spectrosome with classic frequency analyses. RESULTS Spectrosome approach reports more significant signals of multiple associations of agents compare to the frequency analysis. CONCLUSION This difference justifies the usefulness of taking into account the multiplicity of causes leading to a health event, which is a clear asset of the Spectrosome method.
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Assessment of Postural Load during Melon Cultivation in Mediterranean Greenhouses. SUSTAINABILITY 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/su10082729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Health and safety at work directly influence the development of sustainable agriculture. In the agricultural sector, many farm workers suffer musculoskeletal disorders caused by forced posture. The objective of this research is to assess working postures during melon cultivation in Almería-type greenhouses. The Ovako Working Posture Assessment System (OWAS) has been used with pictures of the tasks. The variables studied by multiple correspondence analysis were as follows: Subtask, Posture code, Back, Arms, Legs, Load, Risk, and Risk combination. The OWAS analysis showed that 47.57% of the postures were assessed as risk category 2, 14.32% as risk category 3, 0.47% as risk category 4, and the rest as risk category 1. Corrective measures should be implemented immediately, as soon as possible, or in the near future, depending on the risks detected.
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Leonardi NDV, Kohl LDM, da Silva L, Orsolin EB, Sturmer G, Borges NG, de Carvalho TGML. Lumbar extensor muscle profile of rural milk production workers. Rev Bras Med Trab 2018; 16:128-135. [PMID: 32270077 DOI: 10.5327/z1679443520180166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Milk production is a work system that comprises several tasks from cattle handling, feeding and milking to product consumption. Isometric lumbar extension dynamometry is considered a satisfactory instrument for occupational evaluation and monitoring, especially for populations of workers whose activities demand high levels of strength. Objective To investigate isometric lumbar extension strength among rural milk production workers. Methods The sample comprised 47 rural milk production workers affiliated with the Technical Assistance and Rural Outreach Company/Southern Credit and Rural Assistance Company (Empresa de Assistência Técnica e Extensão Rural/Associação Sulina de Crédito e Assistência Rural - EMATER/ASCAR), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The participants were analyzed based on a sociodemographic questionnaire and lumbar extensor muscle strength testing by means of an isometric dynamometry system. Results Participants were 20 men with average age 50.45±9.44 years old and 27 women with average age 46.15±7.56 years old. The isometric lumbar extension strength was 1,169±289.96 N for the men and 571.34±190.36 N for the women. Conclusion The lumbar extensor muscle profile of rural milk production workers was characterized by higher values for the men, which might be attributed to the fact that men exhibit higher body mass levels, and consequently produce greater force.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niltiane da Veiga Leonardi
- Undergraduate Physical Therapy Course, Center of Health and Agricultural Sciences (Centro de Ciências da Saúde e Agrárias - CCSA), Cruz Alta University (UNICRUZ) - Cruz Alta (RS), Brazil
| | - Leandro de Moraes Kohl
- Undergraduate Physical Therapy Course, Center of Health and Agricultural Sciences (Centro de Ciências da Saúde e Agrárias - CCSA), Cruz Alta University (UNICRUZ) - Cruz Alta (RS), Brazil
| | - Lincoln da Silva
- Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC) - Florianópolis (SC), Brazil
| | - Emanueli Broch Orsolin
- Undergraduate Physical Therapy Course, Center of Health and Agricultural Sciences (Centro de Ciências da Saúde e Agrárias - CCSA), Cruz Alta University (UNICRUZ) - Cruz Alta (RS), Brazil
| | - Giovani Sturmer
- Undergraduate Physical Therapy Course, Center of Health and Agricultural Sciences (Centro de Ciências da Saúde e Agrárias - CCSA), Cruz Alta University (UNICRUZ) - Cruz Alta (RS), Brazil
| | - Noé Gomes Borges
- Center of Health and Sport Sciences (Centro de Ciência da Saúde e do Esporte - CEDIF/LABIN), State University of Santa Catarina (Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina - UDESC) - Florianópolis (SC), Brazil
| | - Themis Goretti Moreira Leal de Carvalho
- Undergraduate Physical Therapy Course, Center of Health and Agricultural Sciences (Centro de Ciências da Saúde e Agrárias - CCSA), Cruz Alta University (UNICRUZ) - Cruz Alta (RS), Brazil
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Berrio S, Barrero LH. Effect of Time Elapsed since Last Pruner Maintenance on Upper-Extremity Biomechanics during Manual Flower Cutting. J Agromedicine 2018; 23:166-175. [PMID: 29648958 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2017.1423250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Manual flower cutting imposes large biomechanical demands on workers' upper extremities. Solutions are required to reduce these demands. This study investigated the effect of time elapsed since the last pruner maintenance on the biomechanical demands of the upper extremities during flower-cutting operations. METHODS Sixteen experienced workers were recruited. All workers performed flower cutting 1, 15, and 30 days after standard pruner maintenance, including cleaning, adjustment, and sharpening. The outcomes included kinematics of the wrist, elbow, and forearm; muscular activity of the extensor carpi radialis, extensor carpi ulnaris, flexor carpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, biceps and medium deltoids of the dominant arm; and self-reported effort. RESULTS On average across muscles, a 15-day delay (from 1 to 15 and from 15 to 30 days) in the execution of pruner maintenance increased over 8% the median recorded muscular activity as measured by the percentage of the maximum voluntary contraction of the root mean square signal. An increase in time since last pruner maintenance resulted in an increase in the 90th percentile pronation-supination posture (larger excursion toward pronation); the median and the 90th percentile velocity of the wrist and elbow; and the 90th percentile acceleration in the pronation-supination direction. There was an increase in perceived effort as measured by a Borg scale as time since last maintenance increased from 1 to 15 days. CONCLUSION Increasing the frequency of pruner maintenance procedures can effectively reduce workers' mechanical exposures during manual flower-cutting operations. Companies should implement daily maintenance programs considering their implementation capacity and expected benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyrle Berrio
- a Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Engineering , Pontificia Universidad Javeriana , Bogotá , Colombia
| | - Lope H Barrero
- a Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Engineering , Pontificia Universidad Javeriana , Bogotá , Colombia
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Caffaro F, Roccato M, Micheletti Cremasco M, Cavallo E. Falls From Agricultural Machinery: Risk Factors Related to Work Experience, Worked Hours, and Operators' Behavior. HUMAN FACTORS 2018; 60:20-30. [PMID: 29091463 DOI: 10.1177/0018720817738591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Objective We investigated the risk factors for falls when egressing from agricultural tractors, analyzing the role played by worked hours, work experience, operators' behavior, and near misses. Background Many accidents occur within the agricultural sector each year. Among them, falls while dismounting the tractor represent a major source of injuries. Previous studies pointed out frequent hazardous movements and incorrect behaviors adopted by operators to exit the tractor cab. However, less is known about the determinants of such behaviors. In addition, near misses are known to be important predictors of accidents, but they have been under-investigated in the agricultural sector in general and as concerns falls in particular. Method A questionnaire assessing dismounting behaviors, previous accidents and near misses, and participants' relation with work was administered to a sample of Italian tractor operators ( n = 286). Results A mediated model showed that worked hours increase unsafe behaviors, whereas work experience decreases them. Unsafe behaviors in turn show a positive association with accidents, via the mediation of near misses. Conclusions We gave a novel contribution to the knowledge of the chain of events leading to fall accidents in the agricultural sector, which is one of the most hazardous industries. Applications Besides tractor design improvements, preventive training interventions may focus on the redesign of the actual working strategies and the adoption of engaging training methods in the use of machinery to optimize the learning of safety practices and safe behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Caffaro
- Institute for Agricultural and Earthmoving Machines of the National Research Council of Italy, Torino
| | | | | | - Eugenio Cavallo
- Institute for Agricultural and Earthmoving Machines of the National Research Council of Italy, Torino
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Jain R, Meena ML, Dangayach GS, Bhardwaj AK. Association of risk factors with musculoskeletal disorders in manual-working farmers. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2018; 73:19-28. [PMID: 28151057 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2017.1289890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The current study is aimed at recognizing the risk factors for major work-related issues (ie, musculoskeletal disorders [MSDs]) among 138 manual-working farmers. Data were collected using modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment score sheet. Different factors influencing MSDs were detected using logistic regression methods. The highest occurrence rate for MSDs was observed in the lower back (71.4%), followed by fingers (62.1%), shoulders (56.4%), and hands/wrists (55%). Factors such as age, gender, daily working hours, hand dominance, perceived fatigue, and work experience were found to be associated with MSDs in one or more upper body regions. The outcome of multinomial regression showed that gender is the most influencing factor for MSDs in all upper body regions except the shoulders. The outcomes of study indicate high occurrence of MSDs among manual-working farmers and highlight the significance of individual and work-related factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Jain
- a Department of Mechanical Engineering , Malaviya National Institute of Technology, JLN Marg , Jaipur , India
| | - M L Meena
- a Department of Mechanical Engineering , Malaviya National Institute of Technology, JLN Marg , Jaipur , India
| | - G S Dangayach
- a Department of Mechanical Engineering , Malaviya National Institute of Technology, JLN Marg , Jaipur , India
| | - A K Bhardwaj
- a Department of Mechanical Engineering , Malaviya National Institute of Technology, JLN Marg , Jaipur , India
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Tinc PJ, Gadomski A, Sorensen JA, Weinehall L, Jenkins P, Lindvall K. Adapting the T0-T4 implementation science model to occupational health and safety in agriculture, forestry, and fishing: A scoping review. Am J Ind Med 2018; 61:51-62. [PMID: 29114898 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite much research to develop life-saving innovations for the agriculture, forestry, and fishing workforce, these populations continue to face the highest fatal and non-fatal injury rates in the United States, as many of these solutions are not fully adopted. METHODS A scoping review was conducted to provide an overview of research to practice efforts in this field. The language used to describe these initiatives, the utility of the NIH T0-T4 model, and the progress along the research to practice continuum were examined. RESULTS Fourteen eligible references demonstrated that progress in implementation science is lacking and that there is little consistency in how researchers apply the T0-T4 model; thus, a new model is presented. CONCLUSIONS Researchers in this field face several challenges when moving from research to practice. While some challenges are addressed with the proposed model, additional resources and infrastructure to support such initiatives are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela J. Tinc
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
- Epidemiology and Global Health; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine; Umeå University; Umeå Sweden
| | - Anne Gadomski
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
- Research Institute; Bassett Healthcare Network; Cooperstown New York
| | - Julie A. Sorensen
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
| | - Lars Weinehall
- Epidemiology and Global Health; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine; Umeå University; Umeå Sweden
| | - Paul Jenkins
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
- Research Institute; Bassett Healthcare Network; Cooperstown New York
| | - Kristina Lindvall
- Epidemiology and Global Health; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine; Umeå University; Umeå Sweden
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Caffaro F, Micheletti Cremasco M, Roccato M, Cavallo E. It does not occur by chance: a mediation model of the influence of workers' characteristics, work environment factors, and near misses on agricultural machinery-related accidents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2017; 23:52-59. [PMID: 29155647 DOI: 10.1080/10773525.2017.1404220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Agriculture is among the most hazardous productive sectors, and farm machinery is a major source of injury. In the present study, a mediated model was used to test the role played by workers' characteristics, work environment factors, and near misses in predicting agricultural machinery-related accidents in a sample of Italian users (n = 290). Hours worked per week (via the mediation of an adverse work environment) showed a positive association and years of work experience (via the mediation of risk perception) showed a negative association with the probability of being involved in a near miss, which in turn showed a positive association with the probability of being involved in a machinery-related accident. Implications for tailored preventive interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Caffaro
- a Institute for Agricultural and Earthmoving Machines (IMAMOTER) , National Research Council (CNR) , Torino , Italy
| | | | - Michele Roccato
- c Department of Psychology , University of Torino , Torino , Italy
| | - Eugenio Cavallo
- a Institute for Agricultural and Earthmoving Machines (IMAMOTER) , National Research Council (CNR) , Torino , Italy
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Evaluating Swine Injection Technologies as a Workplace Musculoskeletal Injury Intervention: A Study Protocol. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:5094509. [PMID: 29214171 PMCID: PMC5682043 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5094509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Intensification of modern swine production has led to many new technologies, including needleless injectors. Although needleless injectors may increase productivity (by reducing injection time) and reduce needlestick injuries, the effect on risk for musculoskeletal disorders is not clear. This project will compare conventional needles with needleless injectors in terms of cost, productivity, injury rates, biomechanical exposures, and worker preference. Muscle activity (EMG) and hand/wrist posture will be measured on swine workers performing injection tasks with both injection methods. Video recordings during the exposure assessments will compare the duration and productivity for each injection method using time-and-motion methods. Injury claim data from up to 60 pig barns will be analyzed for needlestick and musculoskeletal injuries before/after needleless injector adoption. Workers and managers will be asked about what they like and dislike about each method and what helps and hinders successful implementation. The information above will be input into a cost-benefit model to determine the incremental effects of needleless injectors in terms of occupational health, worker preference, and the financial “bottom line” of the farm. Findings will be relevant to the swine industry and are intended to be transferable to other new technologies in animal production.
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Balaguier R, Madeleine P, Rose-Dulcina K, Vuillerme N. Effects of a Worksite Supervised Adapted Physical Activity Program on Trunk Muscle Endurance, Flexibility, and Pain Sensitivity Among Vineyard Workers. J Agromedicine 2017; 22:200-214. [PMID: 28402188 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2017.1317683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In viticulture, the prevalence of low back pain is particularly high among vineyard workers exposed to sustained and awkward postures. One promising setting for low back pain prevention resides in the implementation of workplace physical activity. METHODS This nonrandomized pilot study aims at evaluating the effects of a worksite supervised adapted physical activity program among 17 vineyard workers volunteered to enter either an intervention group (n = 10) or a control group (n = 7).The intervention group followed a physical activity program for 8 weeks involving (1) 15 minutes of warm-up every working day and (2) two weekly 1-hour adapted physical activity sessions targeting trunk muscle endurance and flexibility. The control group was advised to continue normal physical activity. Evaluations were carried out at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12. Physical capacity was assessed using flexibility tests for the trunk, along with trunk muscle flexor and extensor endurance tests. Finally, pain sensitivity was evaluated by assessing pressure pain thresholds over 14 anatomical locations in the low back region. RESULTS For the intervention group, the endurance of the trunk extensor and flexor significantly increased from baseline to week 8 as well as the pressure pain thresholds. No change was observed for the control group over the same period. CONCLUSIONS These encouraging results in combination with the high adherence rate set interesting foundations for the promotion of worksite supervised adapted physical activity and, most likely, offer a new promising approach to prevent low back pain among vineyard workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Balaguier
- a Autonomy, Gerontology, E-health, Imaging and Society (AGEIS), Faculty of Medicine , Grenoble Alpes University , Grenoble , France.,b Physical Activity and Human Performance Group, Centre for Sensory Motor Interaction (SMI), Department of Health Science and Technology , Aalborg University , Aalborg , Denmark
| | - Pascal Madeleine
- b Physical Activity and Human Performance Group, Centre for Sensory Motor Interaction (SMI), Department of Health Science and Technology , Aalborg University , Aalborg , Denmark
| | - Kévin Rose-Dulcina
- a Autonomy, Gerontology, E-health, Imaging and Society (AGEIS), Faculty of Medicine , Grenoble Alpes University , Grenoble , France
| | - Nicolas Vuillerme
- a Autonomy, Gerontology, E-health, Imaging and Society (AGEIS), Faculty of Medicine , Grenoble Alpes University , Grenoble , France.,b Physical Activity and Human Performance Group, Centre for Sensory Motor Interaction (SMI), Department of Health Science and Technology , Aalborg University , Aalborg , Denmark.,c Institut Universitaire de France , Paris , France
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Zeng X, Kociolek AM, Khan MI, Milosavljevic S, Bath B, Trask C. Whole body vibration exposure patterns in Canadian prairie farmers. ERGONOMICS 2017; 60:1064-1073. [PMID: 27780437 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2016.1252859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Whole body vibration is a significant physical risk factor associated with low back pain. This study assessed farmers' exposure to whole body vibration on the Canadian prairies according to ISO 2631-1. Eighty-seven vibration measurements were collected with a triaxial accelerometer embedded in a rubber seat pad at the operator-seat interface of agricultural machinery, including tractors, combines, pickup trucks, grain trucks, sprayers, swathers, all-terrain vehicles, and skid steers. Whole body vibration was highest in the vertical axis, with a mean (range) frequency-weighted root mean squared acceleration of 0.43 m/s2 (0.19-1.06 m/s2). Mean crest factors exceeded 9 in all 3 axes, indicating high mechanical shock content. The vertical axis vibration dose value was 7.55 m/s1.75 (2.18-37.59 m/s1.75), with 41.4% of measurements within or above the health guidance caution zone. These high exposures in addition to an ageing agricultural workforce may increase health risks even further, particularly for the low back. Practitioner Summary: Agricultural workers are frequently exposed to whole body vibration while operating farm equipment, presenting a substantial risk to musculoskeletal health including the low back. Assessing vibration exposure is critical in promoting a safe occupational environment, and may inform interventions to reduce farmer's exposure to vibration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoke Zeng
- a Department of Community Health and Epidemiology , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
| | - Aaron M Kociolek
- b School of Physical and Health Education , Nipissing University , North Bay , Canada
| | - Muhammad Idrees Khan
- a Department of Community Health and Epidemiology , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
| | | | - Brenna Bath
- c School of Physical Therapy , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
- d Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
| | - Catherine Trask
- d Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon , Canada
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Gyemi DL, van Wyk PM, Statham M, Casey J, Andrews DM. 3D peak and cumulative low back and shoulder loads and postures during greenhouse pepper harvesting using a video-based approach. Work 2017; 55:817-829. [PMID: 28059807 DOI: 10.3233/wor-162442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In agricultural field work many tasks have been cited as high priority risk factors for the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs). Although video-based biomechanical approaches have been effective in documenting the physical demands and risks associated with various occupational and non-occupational tasks, to date, this method has yet to be used to document jobs such as crop harvesting in a greenhouse environment. OBJECTIVE To document and assess the postural characteristics and 3D peak and cumulative low back and shoulder loads associated with greenhouse pepper harvesting using a video-based posture sampling approach. METHODS Nine male (28.2 (4.1) years) pepper harvesters from a greenhouse in Southwestern Ontario, Canada were videotaped during a normal shift. 3DMatch was used to document working trunk and shoulder postures, from which 3D peak and cumulative forces and moments were quantified. RESULTS On average, workers spent the majority of their time in neutral trunk postures (lateral bend: 99.1%; axial twist: 59.9%; flexion: 89.8%). Consistent results were found for the left and right shoulder, with the arms held in a neutral flexion posture 50% of the time or more. Four participants experienced peak L4/L5 compression forces (between 4116.3 N and 5937.0 N) which exceeded the NIOSH Action Limit (3400 N) during the cart pushing/pulling task, but remained below the threshold during picking. Mean cumulative L4/L5 extension and shoulder flexion moments ranged in magnitude from 18.5 Nm to 28.2 Nm, and between 19.4 Nm and 23.2 Nm, respectively, across all tasks. CONCLUSIONS The postural characteristics and biomechanical loads associated with greenhouse pepper harvesting were quantified with a video-based biomechanical approach. Further investigations of the physical risk factors for low back and shoulder musculoskeletal disorders is warranted in pepper harvesting, given the postures and loads documented in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle L Gyemi
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Paula M van Wyk
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Melissa Statham
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff Casey
- Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - David M Andrews
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
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Huntley SR, Lee DJ, LeBlanc WG, Arheart KL, McClure LA, Fleming LE, Caban-Martinez AJ. Acute joint pain in the emerging green collar workforce: Evidence from the linked National Health Interview Survey and Occupational Information Network (O*NET). Am J Ind Med 2017; 60:518-528. [PMID: 28514025 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Green jobs are a rapidly emerging category of very heterogeneous occupations that typically involve engagement with new technologies and changing job demands predisposing them to physical stressors that may contribute to the development of joint pain. METHODS We estimated and compared the prevalence of self-reported acute (past 30 days) joint pain between green and non-green collar workers using pooled 2004-2012 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data linked to the Occupational Information Network Database (O*NET). RESULTS Green collar workers have a higher prevalence of acute joint pain as compared to non-green collar workers. Green collar workers with pain in the upper extremity joints were significantly greater than in the non-green collar workforce, for example, right shoulder [23.2% vs 21.1%], right elbow [13.7% vs 12.0%], left shoulder [20.1% vs 18.2%], and left elbow [12.0% vs 10.7%]. CONCLUSIONS Acute joint pain reported by the emerging green collar workforce can assist in identifying at risk worker subgroups for musculoskeletal pain interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R Huntley
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.,Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Miami Center for Orthopaedic Research and Education (CORE), Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - David J Lee
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - William G LeBlanc
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Kristopher L Arheart
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Laura A McClure
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Lora E Fleming
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.,European Centre for Environment and Human Health, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall, United Kingdom
| | - Alberto J Caban-Martinez
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
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McMillan M, Trask C, Dosman J, Hagel L, Pickett W. Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Saskatchewan Farmers. J Agromedicine 2016; 20:292-301. [PMID: 26237719 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2015.1042611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The extent of the musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) problem is not well understood among Canadian farmers, and little too is known about their epidemiology. The purpose of this study was therefore to (1) determine the prevalence of MSDs among farmers in one Canadian province; and (2) describe the types and severities of these disorders and patterns in their occurrence. This cross-sectional analysis was conducted using baseline survey data from the Saskatchewan Farm Injury Cohort Study. Reports of MSDs, demographic and health-related variables, reports of farm-related injuries, and economic conditions of individual farms were available for 2595 adult participants from 1212 farms in Saskatchewan, Canada. Relationships between MSDs and time spent doing farm work were investigated using tests of association. The participation rate was 48.8%. Most (85.6%) of participants reported having musculoskeletal pain in at least one body part over the past year. The lower back was most frequently affected (57.7%), followed by shoulders (44.0%), and neck (39.6%). More serious pain prevented 27.9% of respondents from performing regular work activities. MSD prevalence did not vary by sex, commodity type, or by total hours of farm work completed; prevalence was significantly (P < .05) related to time spent performing biomechanically demanding tasks such as heavy lifting and working with arms overhead. The most common MSD site in farmers was the low back, followed by the upper and then lower extremities. Although this study aimed to identify high-risk groups, lack of differences between demographic groups suggests that the majority of farmers are at risk for MSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle McMillan
- a Department of Public Health Sciences , Queen's University , Kingston , Ontario , Canada
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Benson J, Garrison E, Dropkin J, Jenkins PL. Methodological concerns related to response bias in migrant and seasonal farmworkers. Am J Ind Med 2016; 59:1112-1119. [PMID: 27485597 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The original objective was to measure the impact of kneepads on musculoskeletal pain in migrant and seasonal farmworkers (MSFWs). Secondary analyses were conducted to quantify the extent to which response bias may have skewed the study's results. METHODS Surveys were used to collect data on baseline pain and post-intervention pain, the amount of time participants spent wearing kneepads, and their overall ratings of the intervention. RESULTS Participants did not experience significantly less pain with kneepads, and wore them for considerably less than the prescribed amount of time. However, subjects rated them very favorably. Given the strong suspicion of response bias, no firm conclusions could be drawn regarding the intervention. CONCLUSIONS Unique survey methodologies must be used with MSFWs, who tend to have low research literacy and are particularly susceptible to response bias. Objective study outcomes are particularly favorable in this population in order to minimize dependence on self-reported measures. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:1112-1119, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemma Benson
- Columbia University School of Medicine; New York New York
| | - Emma Garrison
- The New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health; Bassett Healthcare Network; Cooperstown New York
| | - Jonathan Dropkin
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology; Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine; Hofstra New York
| | - Paul L. Jenkins
- Bassett Research Institute; Bassett Healthcare Network; Cooperstown New York
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Sarkar K, Dev S, Das T, Chakrabarty S, Gangopadhyay S. Examination of postures and frequency of musculoskeletal disorders among manual workers in Calcutta, India. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2016; 22:151-8. [PMID: 27362732 DOI: 10.1080/10773525.2016.1189682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Manual material handling (MMH) activities require workers to adopt various awkward postures leading to the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). OBJECTIVES To investigate the postures adopted during heavy load handling and the frequency of MSDs among MMH workers in Calcutta, India. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study with 100 MMH workers. MSD frequency was assessed via the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. The Ovako Working Posture Assessment System (OWAS) was used to analyze working posture. We used logistic regression to predict MSD risk factors. RESULTS Ninety five percent of workers reported a MSD in at least one body part in the past 12 months. According to OWAS results, 83% of the analysed work postures require immediate corrective measures for worker safety. The most harmful posture was carrying a heavy load overhead. Carrying more than 120 kg increased the odds of low back and neck pain by 4.527 and 4.555, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This sample had a high frequency of reported MSDs, likely attributed to physiologically strenuous occupational activities repeated on average of 30-40 times daily. Ergonomic interventions, such as the use of handcarts, and occupational training are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnendu Sarkar
- a Occupational Ergonomics Laboratory, Department of Physiology , University College of Science and Technology, University of Calcutta , Kolkata , India
| | - Samrat Dev
- a Occupational Ergonomics Laboratory, Department of Physiology , University College of Science and Technology, University of Calcutta , Kolkata , India
| | - Tamal Das
- b Department of Physiology , Vidyasagar Evening College , Kolkata , India
| | - Sabarni Chakrabarty
- a Occupational Ergonomics Laboratory, Department of Physiology , University College of Science and Technology, University of Calcutta , Kolkata , India
| | - Somnath Gangopadhyay
- a Occupational Ergonomics Laboratory, Department of Physiology , University College of Science and Technology, University of Calcutta , Kolkata , India
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Trask C, Bath B, Johnson PW, Teschke K. Risk Factors for Low Back Disorders in Saskatchewan Farmers: Field-based Exposure Assessment to Build a Foundation for Epidemiological Studies. JMIR Res Protoc 2016; 5:e111. [PMID: 27286748 PMCID: PMC4920958 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.5573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies of many geographical settings and agricultural commodities show that low back disorders are an important public health issue among farmers, who represent a special rural population. However, few studies have examined the impact of low back disorders on farmers' work or the strategies that they adopt to avoid associated pain and disability. OBJECTIVE This study protocol will investigate 3 issues related to low back disorders in Saskatchewan farmers: (1) the vibration, heavy lifting, and awkward postures farmers encounter during their work that might contribute to low back disorders; (2) the impact low back disorders have on farmers in terms of their ability to work; and (3) the types of preventative measures and solutions that farmers implement to reduce the occurrence of low back pain. METHODS To answer these questions, researchers will travel to 30 farms to make measurements of vibration, lifting, and posture during the farmers' regular work tasks. Farmers will be interviewed about any pain and/or disability using standardized interview questions. Farmers will also be asked about safety measures they have implemented at their farm, such as modified tools or equipment, to reduce the occurrence of low back disorders or pain. RESULTS Data collection is currently underway for this study, with the intention to complete all data collection and analysis by the end of 2018. CONCLUSIONS Occupational determinants of health such as vibration, heavy lifting, and awkward postures are important in the development and progression of low back disorders, and the results of this study will allow for cost-effective epidemiological studies of these determinants in the future. In identifying prevention strategies, this study will also facilitate future research evaluating the effectiveness of safety measures.
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Kang MY, Lee MJ, Chung H, Shin DH, Youn KW, Im SH, Chae HS, Lee KS. Musculoskeletal Disorders and Agricultural Risk Factors Among Korean Farmers. J Agromedicine 2016; 21:353-63. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2016.1178612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Storm JF, LePrevost CE, Tutor-Marcom R, Cope WG. Adapting Certified Safe Farm to North Carolina Agriculture: An Implementation Study. J Agromedicine 2016; 21:269-83. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2016.1180273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia F. Storm
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Catherine E. LePrevost
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robin Tutor-Marcom
- North Carolina Agromedicine Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - W. Gregory Cope
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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Nguyen HT, Kritchevsky SB, Foxworth JL, Quandt SA, Summers P, Walker FO, Arcury TA. A Pilot Study of Gait Function in Farmworkers in Eastern North Carolina. J Agromedicine 2015; 20:427-33. [PMID: 26471952 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2015.1074971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Farmworkers endure many job-related hazards, including fall-related work injuries. Gait analysis may be useful in identifying potential fallers. The goal of this pilot study was to explore differences in gait between farmworkers and non-farmworkers. The sample included 16 farmworkers and 24 non-farmworkers. Gait variables were collected using the portable GAITRite system, a 16-foot computerized walkway. Generalized linear regression models were used to examine group differences. All models were adjusted for two established confounders, age and body mass index. There were no significant differences in stride length, step length, double support time, and base of support; but farmworkers had greater irregularity of stride length (P = .01) and step length (P = .08). Farmworkers performed significantly worse on gait velocity (P = .003) and cadence (P < .001) relative to non-farmworkers. We found differences in gait function between farmworkers and non-farmworkers. These findings suggest that measuring gait with a portable walkway system is feasible and informative in farmworkers and may possibly be of use in assessing fall risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha T Nguyen
- a Department of Family and Community Medicine , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA.,b Center for Worker Health , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Stephen B Kritchevsky
- c Section on Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Judy L Foxworth
- d Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences , Winston-Salem State University , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Sara A Quandt
- b Center for Worker Health , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA.,e Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Phillip Summers
- a Department of Family and Community Medicine , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA.,b Center for Worker Health , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Francis O Walker
- f Department of Neurology , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
| | - Thomas A Arcury
- a Department of Family and Community Medicine , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA.,b Center for Worker Health , Wake Forest School of Medicine , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
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