Well-being Of Workers Research Articles

Assessing workplace well-being in healthcare: The violence-prevention climate and its relationship with workplace happiness.

To identify the relationship between the violence-prevention climate and workplace happiness in hospitals. The secondary objective is to adapt a valid and reliable scale to a different culture in healthcare settings. Healthcare settings are not immune to the harmful effects of violence, which can exacerbate existing challenges such as staff shortages. In the midst of these challenges, organizational efforts to ensure the safety of health workers are critical. These efforts can contribute positively to workers' happiness or well-being. Using a cross-sectional design with 400 healthcare professionals from five hospitals in Trabzon, Turkey, data collection involved the Violence-Prevention Climate Scale and Workplace Happiness Scale. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to test the Turkish validity and reliability of the scale, and the consistency coefficient was calculated. The findings revealed that, on average, employees exhibited high levels of violence-prevention climate ( = 4.22) and moderate levels of workplace happiness ( =3.70). Subsequently, correlation analysis unveiled a statistically significant association between the dimensions of violence-prevention climate and workplace happiness (p<0.05, r=0.392). It was observed that those who experienced violence and did not feel safe in the workplace had lower levels of happiness. The instances of healthcare workers being exposed to violence identified in the study largely align with previous theories related to both individual and organizational effects. Violence-prevention climate affects the safety and workplace happiness of workers. Employees expect their managers to seriously consider all reports of violence. In this context, creating a violence-prevention climate would be a good start. According to WHO 2030 targets, in an environment where there is a significant shortage of healthcare personnel, especially nurses, ensuring that existing employees work in a safer and happier environment will make a positive contribution to healthcare systems.

Redesign of workstations guitar product to minimize musculoskeletal disorders for workers

The production process of acoustic guitars in Indonesia involves 4 workstations and 17 distinct activities. Due to the nature of the work—8-hour shifts in seated positions with frequent bending, squatting, and repetitive movements—workers are at risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), particularly in the neck, shoulders, back, arms, and wrists. This study aimed to identify and analyze body posture conditions using the Nordic Body Map (NBM) and Muscle Fatigue Analysis (MFA) methods. The NBM method was used to record pain complaints across various body parts, while the MFA assessed muscle fatigue by considering the level of effort, work duration, and movement frequency. Results from the NBM showed that among the workers, 2 were at high risk, 3 at medium risk, and 7 at low risk for MSDs. The MFA further identified 3 workers with very high to high-priority fatigue concerns, specifically affecting the neck, back, shoulders, right arm, wrist, and legs. To address these issues, the study recommended redesigning work facilities and layouts using the SolidWorks application, along with implementing regular muscle stretching and exercise routines to minimize the risk of MSDs and improve worker well-being.

Pengaruh Job Demands terhadap Employee Well-Being pada Karyawan PT. X

This study was conducted with a quantitative approach to eval_uate how job demands affect employee well-being in workers at PT. X. The sample consisted of all employees of PT. X, totaling 56 people. The measuring instrument used was the QEEW.2.0 scale modified by Rahayu (2019), and the employee well-being scale by Rahmi et al. (2021). As a result, the coefficient (ß = -0.380, p &lt;0.05) gave a significant effect on employee well-being in workers at PT X.

Breaking Points: Exploring the Well-Being of Egyptian Social Workers Amid Covid-19

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges and stressors for social workers, often at the forefront of responding to crises. The pandemic has disrupted their professional practices, increased their workload, and exposed them to health risks. As a result, the well-being of social workers has become a growing concern, especially in countries with limited resources. The present study used a cross-sectional web-based survey to assess the prevalence rates of anxiety, stress, sleep quality, and overall well-being in a sample of 216 social workers employed in public medical facilities in Egypt during the COVID-19 epidemic. It also investigated the factors that influence their well-being. The results showed that half of the social workers (51.4%) scored 10 or higher on the General Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), 83.3% scored ≥ 14 on PSS-10, and the mean score for sleep quality was 7.24 (SD = 2.10). Over half (58.3%) scored 50 or lower on the World Health Organization Wellbeing scale (WHO-5). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that younger social workers and those who scored ≤ 9 on GAD-7 were more likely to report a higher level of well-being. A higher score on PSS-10 was associated with a decrease in overall well-being. Working with family members of COVID-19 patients and sleep quality were not associated with WHO-5. These findings highlight the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of social workers in Egypt, underscoring the importance of providing adequate support and resources to address their well-being.

A Review of HRV and EEG Technology Applications in Industry 5.0: Emphasising Manufacturing Efficiency and Worker Well-Being

A Review of HRV and EEG Technology Applications in Industry 5.0: Emphasising Manufacturing Efficiency and Worker Well-Being

Personalizing Human–Robot Workplace Parameters in Human-Centered Manufacturing

This study investigates the relationship between collaborative robot (CR) parameters and worker utilization and system performance in human–robot collaboration (HRC) environments. We investigated whether optimized parameters increase workplace efficiency and whether adapting these parameters to the individual worker improves workplace outcomes. Three experimental scenarios with different CR parameters were analyzed in terms of the setup time, assembly time, finished products, work in process, and worker utilization. The main results show that personalized CR parameters significantly improve efficiency and productivity. The scenario in which CR parameters were tailored to individual workers, balanced the workload, and minimized worker stress, resulting in higher productivity compared to non-people-centric settings. The study shows that personalization reduces cognitive and physical stress, promotes worker well-being, and is consistent with the principles of human-centered manufacturing. Overall, our research supports the adoption of personalized, collaborative workplace parameters, supported by the mathematical model, to optimize employee efficiency and health, contributing to human-centered and efficient HRC environments.

KONTRIBUSI JOB DEMANDS DAN JOB RESOURCES TERHADAP PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING PEKERJA CREATIVE AGENCY DI JAKARTA

This study aims to examine the contributions of job demands and job resources to the psychological well-being of creative agency workers. Creative agencies often require longer working hours and higher workloads to meet customer demands. However, the resources provided by companies to support workers sometimes do not adequately compensate for these demands, which can negatively impact workers' psychological well-being. Despite this, creative agencies depend heavily on their workers to achieve company targets, and the psychological well-being of these workers plays a crucial role in their ability to develop their potential and function optimally. It is predicted that adequate job resources to meet job demands will enhance the psychological functioning of workers. This research utilized quantitative methods and involved 106 creative agency workers in Jakarta, selected through convenience sampling. The instruments used for measurement were the Questionnaire sur les Ressources et Contraintes Professionnelles and the Psychological Well-Being Scale. The results of multiple regression analysis indicated that job demands and job resources significantly contribute to the psychological well-being of creative agency workers. Specifically, job demands have a negative impact on psychological well-being, whereas job resources have a positive impact. Therefore, even though the work is demanding, sufficient resources can help maintain the psychological well-being of workers.

Running on Empty: Ontario Hospital Workers' Mental Health and Well-Being Deteriorating Under Austerity-Driven System.

The well-being of health care workers (HCWs) and the public in Ontario, Canada is at risk as the province's health care system is strained by neoliberal restructuring and an aging population. Deteriorating working conditions that preceded the COVID-19 pandemic further declined as the added challenges took their toll on the work force, physically and mentally. The pandemic-weary hospital staff, predominantly women, many racialized, are facing unprecedented challenges. They are experiencing stress, anxiety, and burnout from staffing shortages and the resulting increased workloads, long hours, and violence. Comprehensive telephone interviews were conducted with 26 HCWs from less highly paid occupations in a range of hospitals across the province. Thematic analysis reveals a critical need for policies and legislation ensuring increased funding, hospital capacity, and reduced wait times while providing HCWs with fair and equitable wages, increased staffing, mental health supports, greater respect and acknowledgment, and strong protections from violence and other workplace hazards.

“Jail isn’t the answer for these inmates”: how to respond to methamphetamine use in prisons

PurposeThe correctional system continues to face challenges with responding to and managing methamphetamine use among incarcerated individuals. This study aims to uncover what resources and policies could better help correctional workers deal with these challenges. The authors also examined methamphetamine’s impact on correctional work and staff well-being.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey was distributed to correctional workers (n = 269) in Manitoba, Canada, featuring questions about their experiences related to methamphetamine use in populations under their care, what supports are needed to adequately address the concern, and the potential effects on self and their occupational responsibilities. Using NVivo software, survey responses were analysed using an emergent theme approach.FindingsCorrectional workers believed policies and protocols for managing methamphetamine use and withdrawal are currently inadequate. Correctional workers reported having monthly contact with incarcerated individuals experiencing methamphetamine withdrawal, posing safety concerns to them and other incarcerated individuals. Respondents proposed more education and training on managing incarcerated people withdrawing from methamphetamines, related to the symptoms of use and withdrawal and how to support persons detoxing. Increased human and material resources were reported as being needed (e.g. more nurses onsite and better screening devices). Respondents also desired more medical intervention, safe living spaces for methamphetamine users and programming to support addiction.Originality/valueThe current study unpacks correctional workers’ perspectives, support desires and their experiences managing methamphetamine use amongst incarcerated people. The authors discuss the required knowledge to respond to gaps in prison living, re-entry and related policy needs.

A study on substance abuse awareness and usage trends within the construction sector

Purpose To address safety risks, worker well-being concerns and productivity losses in construction due to substance misuse, this study aims to explore awareness and usage levels of various substances among Nigerian construction professionals. The findings aim to inform targeted interventions and policy development to tackle these industry-specific challenges. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive literature review identified several substances and intoxicants commonly used in construction, which informed the development of a well-structured questionnaire. This questionnaire was distributed to both construction professionals and nonprofessionals. The Shapiro-Wilk test assessed the normality of awareness and utilization scores for each substance, while the Kruskal-Wallis H-test explored significant differences in awareness and usage scores among different respondent groups. Findings Despite reporting low awareness of substances commonly used in construction, a significant proportion (over 60%) of respondents admitted to using several of these substances in their construction activities. This highlights a concerning disconnect, with more than half (62.5%) exceeding a predefined threshold (3.5) for significant substance use. Ten out of the 16 substances surveyed fell into this category, indicating a widespread issue within the industry. Practical implications The findings of this study highlight the need for increased education and awareness programs about the dangers of substance misuse in the construction industry. Construction companies should implement regular training sessions and workshops to educate workers on the risks associated with substance use. Additionally, there should be stricter enforcement of substance use policies and routine substance testing to deter misuse. These measures can enhance safety, improve worker well-being and boost overall productivity in the construction industry. Originality/value The insights from this study can inform the development of international policies and best practices for substance use prevention and worker well-being in the construction industry. Sharing these findings with international organizations, policymakers and industry stakeholders can help create broader guidelines and frameworks adaptable for implementation in various countries.

Evaluation of Maturity in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Risks Mitigation and Safety Climate in the Oil and Gas Company, Bojonegoro

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has become a rapidly growing instrument worldwide, driven by commitments to enhance environmentally sustainable economic growth as outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement. Companies in Indonesia are increasingly emphasizing the importance of ESG in their business activities due to the potential impact on the environment and society, including the oil and gas companies. Environmental and social risks can affect the sustainability of a company, while safety climate plays a role in the safety and well-being of workers. The study used a descriptive qualitative approach. It also used NOSACQ-50 questionnaires to assess the safety climate and identify environmental and social management system (ESMS) elements using the toolkit from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) at the Bojonegoro oil and gas company. The result of the ESMS IFC matrix concludes that the maturity of Bojonegoro’s oil and gas company in mitigating ESG risks needs to be more prepared to mitigate ESG risks as preparation progresses towards optimal operations, whilst the safety climate has an average score of 3.40, which means that the safety climate can be maintained and developed.

Naloxone and the Workplace: Combatting the Opioid Crisis While Safeguarding Workers' Health and Wellbeing.

Naloxone and the Workplace: Combatting the Opioid Crisis While Safeguarding Workers' Health and Wellbeing.

Mental health and well-being of healthcare workers in Central Asia

Mental health and well-being of healthcare workers in Central Asia

Precarious employment and mental health in the United States: Results from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), 2008–2021

ObjectivesTo measure associations between employment precarity and mental health among United States (US) workers. MethodsThis study used data from the US Medical Expenditure Panel Survey for 2008–2021. Multivariable generalized estimating equations were used to measure associations between employment precarity (operationalized as a multi-dimensional exposure) and self-rated mental health after adjusting for relevant confounders. Marginal effects analysis was used to assess potential dose-response relationships between precarity and mental health. ResultsOur sample (n = 57,529) was representative of >106 million US workers employed throughout 2008–2021. Compared to those with low levels of employment precarity, those with medium and high levels of precarity had an increased odds of reporting poor/fair mental health (aOR = 1.21; 95% CI = 1.11, 1.32 and 1.51; 95% CI = 1.36, 1.68, respectively). Marginal effects analysis indicated that increasing levels of precarity were associated with an increased probability of reporting poor/fair mental health. ConclusionsIncreasing levels of employment precarity were associated with poor/fair self-rated mental health, findings potentially indicative of a dose-response relationship between the two. These nationally representative findings suggest employment precarity is an important social determinant of mental health. Future research could investigate how best to mitigate the negative effects of precarity on workers' lives and well-being, particularly regarding mental health.

The Heroes Descent: How Value Statements Threaten the Wellbeing of Essential Workers

The Heroes Descent: How Value Statements Threaten the Wellbeing of Essential Workers

Prevalence and associated factors of suspected occupational skin diseases among restaurant workers in peninsular Malaysia: secondary data analysis of Registry for Occupational Disease Screening (RODS)

ObjectivesOccupational skin diseases (OSDs) pose significant risks to the health and well-being of restaurant workers. However, there is presently limited evidence on the burden and determinants of OSDs among this...

Overtime work and Chinese workers' physical and mental health: The mediating role of social support and work value awareness.

China was once called the world's factory. Chinese workers had long weekly working hours. However, the empirical results of the relationship between overtime work and workers' health are mixed and remain inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate how overtime work influenced workers' physical and mental health and the role of lifestyles, social support, and work value awareness. Data from the China Labor-force Dynamics Survey 2016 (N = 14,205) was used. The instrumental variable approach was employed to overcome the endogeneity problem between overtime work and workers' health. The bootstrapping method was conducted to elicit the role of lifestyles, social support, and work value awareness. The results indicated that overtime work significantly and negatively influenced Chinese workers' physical and mental health. The results of the bootstrapping suggested that workers' social support and work value awareness partially mediated the relationship between overtime work and their physical and mental health. However, the mediating role of lifestyles was insignificant. Through using big data with national representativeness, this study suggests that overtime work negatively influences Chinese workers' physical and mental health. Our findings provide policy implications for improving workers' health rights and well-being in emerging economies.

Alone or With Others? An Event-Based Study on Taking Eating and Drinking Work Breaks and Well-Being

Alone or With Others? An Event-Based Study on Taking Eating and Drinking Work Breaks and Well-Being

Tunnel construction worker safety state prediction and management system based on AHP and anomaly detection algorithm model

Tunnels represent complex, high-risk, and technically demanding underground construction projects. The safety of construction workers in tunnels is influenced by various factors, including physiological indicators, tunnel dimensions, and internal environmental conditions. Analyzing safety based solely on static factors is inadequate for modern tunnel engineering safety management requirements. To address this challenge, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of factors impacting safety and employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to identify seven significant factors with high importance: body temperature, heart rate, internal temperature, internal humidity, CO concentration, chlorine concentration, and the relative positioning of personnel. Considering these factors essential for assessing worker safety, we introduce a novel model named Tunnel-APH-AD. For training models aimed at anomaly detection, we performed data augmentation and utilized four distinct machine learning models. Additionally, ensemble learning techniques were applied to aggregate the predictions from individual models, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of detecting safety states for tunnel workers. We also evaluated the performance of these models on out-of-distribution (OOD) samples to test their robustness and generalizability. The experimental results indicate that, under similar ventilation and tunnel conditions, the ensemble learning model exhibits superior overall performance compared to individual models, underscoring the effectiveness of model combination in improving the accuracy and reliability of safety alerts. Through experimental validation, this study provides interpretable, scalable, and scientifically generalized applications of machine learning theories in systems for tunnel construction worker safety alerts. These findings contribute to advancing safety management practices in tunnel engineering, enabling proactive and effective measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the well-being of workers.

An unbreakable friendship: Soviet medical internationalism in Cuba in the 1960s

Locked in a struggle with the United States after its 1959 revolution, Cuba was a natural Soviet ally in the Cold War. The USSR offered Cuba lavish aid, including in the realm of medicine and health. The 1960s saw dozens of public health officials, medical instructors, and clinicians arrive on the island to help improve the health and wellbeing of Cuban workers and peasants. This article plumbs Russian archives and published Cuban and Soviet medical journals and newspapers to analyse the Cold War as a lived experience through a case study of Soviet cadres on the ground in Cuba. The USSR’s socialist solidarity project in Cuba exemplifies Cold War soft power policies designed to ‘win hearts and minds’. Moscow’s intent to build an ‘unbreakable friendship’ with Havana meant navigating a complex web of relationships. In illuminating the grassroots experience, we argue for the centrality of personal and interpersonal encounters as a window on the state and bloc politics that entangled the First, Second, and Third Worlds.