Social and Occupational Ergonomics

AHFE International

Accelerating Open Access Science in Human Factors Engineering and Human-Centered Computing

Social and Occupational Ergonomics

book-cover

Editors: Waldemar Karwowski, Henrijs Kalkis, Zenija Roja

Topics: Social & Occupational Ergonomics

Publication Date: 2022

ISBN: 978-1-958651-41-4

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1002651

Articles

Application of information technologies for social inclusion: current trends and future prospective

Remote work and remote studies has increased in great extent the requirements of information technologies use and skills to apply information technologies. In European Union countries annually it is checked the availability of computer software as well as skills of information technologies use: there are annually conducted surveys on survey on use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in households and by individuals. The aim of the paper is to research theoretical aspects and to analyze internet use in regions of Latvia for checking on whether there is statistically significant use. The source of the data is the questionnaire No. ICT-persons “Use of computers and the internet in households”. As well as Labor Force Surveys, EU-SILC survey data. Research methods applied: scientific publication analysis, time-series analysis of internet use in Baltic countries, analysis of data on differences of availability of computers in households by regions of Latvia by analysis if variance or ANOVA, by territories (urban and rural) by t – test and by household size by ANOVA.

Biruta Sloka, Ieva Brence, Henrijs Kalkis

Conference Proceedings

Occupational health and safety and sustainable return to work management in small and medium-sized enterprises

BackgroundThe sustainable retention of workers after a work-related injury poses particular challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Although studies on SMEs have multiplied over the past 30 years and some of them have led to the emergence of new concepts and theories in occupational health and safety (OHS), little is known about what can be done in SMEs to improve the OHS management of absences caused by work-related injuries. The objective of this presentation will be to overview strategical elements (resources, structures, activities) that could also benefit to the sustainable return-to work (SRTW).MethodA scoping review (Levac et al. 2010) on OHS management in SMEs was conducted in a reflective, iterative and collaborative manner. The methodological approach includes searching for relevant publications from the 2000 year in scientific (e.g., SCOPUS, ProQuest) and non-scientific (e.g., NHSE, NIOSH) databases, combining several key concepts related to OHS management and SRTW. Criteria for the selection of the studies were: 1) focus on OHS management, generally (review), or empirically (workplace intervention study); 2) focus on SMEs globally or in a specific context (size of enterprise, sectors of activities). Two reviewers using an iterative consensus-based approach performed article selection, extraction of data, and analyses.ResultsThree groups of strategic elements are beneficial for OHS management in SME: diffusion of information, support to implement integrative adapted systems of management and training programs, and especially designed for SME or intermediaries.Diffusion of information about legislation for SMEs, and guidelines for compliance with regulations, provide SME motivation and resources to intervene on the proper factors on SRTW. External support to OSH interventions, provided by control authorities, associations and networks of companies, and external consultants allow sharing knowledge and OSH-related resources, promoting best practices in SME. The availability of knowledge of effective OSH interventions could also help to replication or adaptation in particular contexts of SME, helping the achievement of proper conditions for SRTW. This kind of collaborative support to SME, combined with the continual engagement of employers and communication between management and employees and among employees, play an essential role in all phases of preventive or corrective interventions. Finally, training programs specially designed for SMEs foster interventions by increasing the awareness and the knowledge of the personnel, who are more motivated to intervene or correctly behave. DiscussionOverall, the strategies, resources, structures and activities in the SME, seem to be specific to the legislation in place and the different levels of actions. Even if generally they do not explicitly have an aim to promote sustainable retention of workers after a work-related injury, they present some opportunities to do so, modalities being different depending on the size of enterprise, and the level of risk of work activities in the sector. The results of this scoping review provide input for methodological and conceptual thinking for future policies or programs, as well as some information about integration of SRTW to OHS approaches and intervention modalities.

Iuliana Nastasia, Romain Rives

Conference Proceedings

Comparative analyses of construction classification systems in a context of benefits, challenges and required resources

The research performs a comprehensive analysis of the existing most widely used international and local construction classification system application practices, to identify the main benefits or problematic aspects of their application in the context of BIM. The research estimates the time and cost resources required to classify the standard BIM model in the three selected classification systems - Uniclass 2015, CCI and LBN 501-17, thus identifying the time and costs to be considered when classifying or reclassifying BIM models in different classifica-tion systems. The novelty and added value of the study are the empirical evi-dence obtained for scientists and policymakers on the comparative characteris-tics of classification systems and the time and cost resources required to apply them to national building digitization policies.

Martins Danusevics, Liga Braslina, Daina Šķiltere, Anda Batraga, Jelena Salkovska, Aija Legzdina, Henrijs Kalkis

Conference Proceedings

Specific Marketing Capabilities for Improved Export Performance in Young Firms

The key challenge for young firms in export markets is to find the market opportunity and to develop an appropriate value proposition. The aim of this study is to identify the specific marketing capabilities that support the process of internationalization in young firms and to develop the model that links marketing capabilities to the export performance. The research model was tested within young exporting firm sample in Latvia. Quantitative data was analysed using factor analysis and structural equation modelling with PLS-SEM. This study identifies a unique set of marketing capabilities that enhance the export performance. Strategic marketing capabilities that have a positive effect on export performance are 1) customer engagement (the largest effect), 2) partner linking, 3) market sensing, 4) new product development and 5) strategic creativity capabilities. Firms need to develop cultural marketing capabilities - agility, proactivity, adaptiveness and openness to experiments in the export marketing process. This type of behaviour, particularly proactivity and openness to experiments, has a positive effect on export results and enhances the level of strategic marketing capabilities. The research model can be used by export firm managers and owners to improve the export performance and by government export promotion program leaders to develop and substantiate support tools and activities.

Ieva Puke, Anda Batraga, Jelena Salkovska, Henrijs Kalkis

Conference Proceedings

Possibilities of Using Lean and Efficiency Improvement Methodologies in Service Area

According to The Toyota Way (Liker, 2004), Lean is a philosophy that was initiated by Henry Ford and later finalized by Toyota in Japan in the 50s and 60s. years. Lean helps to gain a competitive advantage, reduce production costs, deliver high quality products to the customer, and ensure profitability by implementing Lean thinking and tools. Lean and related efficiency improvement methodologies (Lean) are used most in the industrial manufacturing companies and operations, there is little work that researched use of Lean in the service industry. The main goal of the study is to research use of Lean among service area companies in Latvia, define prerequisites for success and measure relevant key performance indicator for Lean and pre-/non-lean organizations to get insides on how companies in the region could benefit from Lean, what is needed to build up a Lean culture.Methods. The work is benchmarking relevant research in other countries, comparing case studies and empirical analysis to show the starting effort and gains that service industry company could get. Lean allows to use the company's resources efficiently and wisely and to plan the delivery of services. All companies, not just those operating in the industrial manufacturing area, can benefit from the implementation of Lean. Results. Now companies have access to a wide range of methodologies and tools that allow them to improve performance and achieve lower cost levels in the long-term run. Large companies use one or more methods. There are many tutorials and books that describe each methodology and tool, but not always revealing the details of process how company executives perform selection from this large variety of choices. Many companies in the service area are familiar with the methodology, but do not know how to get started and get first “quick wins”, although they could achieve as good results as industry and manufacturing. The topicality and necessity of such study in Latvia is determined by the fact that most of the companies there are the representatives of service area, including state institutions. A lot of effort is applied to “push” Lean into organizations (especially in public sector), but success rate is low. For example, in Scandinavian countries, the Lean and Process Improvement methodology is recognized at the national level and is actively integrated in both education system and business life. This trend is less significant in Latvia. Conclusion. The entry threshold for implementing Lean is lower than many organizations originally think it is. There are many examples showing that the initially wrong choice of the methodology application strategy makescompanies tend to fail and drop the use of Lean. There are several major factors that need to be in place to start Lean transformation in service industry and adopt both culture part and tools in order to succeed. Lean has also high impact on the service industry with rather more complicated visualizations of gain, but it is proven to bring good results both in financial and organizational aspects of the company.

Svetlana Kocerova, Henrijs Kalkis, Zenija Roja

Conference Proceedings

The Futuristic Building Industry: Updating Skills-Set Required for Digital Transformation

The skills regarding the building profession have undergone various changes during the evolution in the building industry over the past century. Due to the advancements in the building sector, the inherent disciplines have developed a defined set of skills. This study explores the relevant skills in the building industry, comparing the current skills to the evolving skills to ensure the continued relevance of professionals in the futuristic building industry. In order to fulfil the aim of the study, a descriptive methodology was utilised through a quantitative approach. Data for the research was gathered through a survey of building industry firms in South Africa. The findings of this study highlight the current skills and the evolving skills in the building industry. Interlinkages are also explored between the current and evolving skills. It is pertinent to note that the multi-disciplinary nature of the building industry requires professionals to be equipped with valuable skills applicable and relevant in the professional world. In conclusion, It is pertinent to note that current, evolving, and future skills may transform from time to time. This makes it highly important for building professionals to update their skills from time to time in order to remain relevant in the digitally transformed 21st-century futuristic building industry.

Olushola Akinshipe, John Aliu, Clinton Aigbavboa

Conference Proceedings

Digital Transformation in Quantity Surveying: Where Lies the Issues?

Most industries are embracing digitalisation as a result of the fourth industrial revolution. However, the construction industry has lagged in this bid as it only recently embraced technological innovations. In recent times, quantity surveying firms are continually adopting technological innovation in their work practices. The current study will provide relevant knowledge about the impact of digitalisation within quantity surveying firms in South Africa. Hence, the study explores the stumbling blocks to digitalisation in quantity surveying. Data for the research was gathered through a survey of professional quantity surveyors working in South Africa. Theoretical review highlights that the value added by digital transformation greatly outweighs the problem, hence the need to ensure that the quantity surveying profession is fully digitalised. Theoretical findings classified the barriers to digital transformation in quantity surveying four significant categories; personnel competency, cost and affordability, data and cyber security issues and stakeholders concerns. Empirical findings rank the barriers in the order of impact as follows: first - cost and affordability, second - personnel competency, third - stakeholders concerns data and last - cyber security issues. These costs include the cost of purchase, installation and operation of digital tools, as well as training and development of staff to deploy digital transformation within activities and processes. Finally, it is recommended that governmental and professional institutions support the digital transformation in funding, educational reforms and sensitisation programmes.

Olushola Akinshipe, Matthew Ikuabe, Clinton Aigbavboa

Conference Proceedings

Muscle Fatigue for the Health Staff in Hospital Operating Unit

For the research the health sector was selected and it is one of the largest sectors of the economy in Latvia, where more than 6.8% of workers are employed in different professions. Operating block employees from different hospital clinics were selected for the research. The aim of the study was to investigate muscle fatigue and its causes for the operation unit health staff. Such investigation methods were used: survey, determination of the hand muscle strength, muscle fatigue analysis. Survey results prove that operation unit staff indicates discomfort in various body parts after the work shift. That is in accordance with the results of myotonometric measurements that show that during the weekly working cycle, the most loaded muscle groups were in shoulder region and legs, but less loaded were arm muscles. Analysis of the strength of the handgrip muscle shows that the mean handgrip muscle strength of nearly all the employees of the studied professions is in line with the norm before and after a week of performance, for some right-hand grip muscle strength is slightly greater than the strength of the left hand. The research will be continued with motion capture analysis to analyze the awkward movements during operations for surgeons, nurses, and surgeons-residents.

Zenija Roja, Patricija Freiberga, Henrijs Kalkis

Conference Proceedings

Methodology of ergonomic evaluation in construction and building works

This work proposes a practical methodology for the evaluation and control of ergonomic risks in construction and building works. The methodology starts with the Analysis of Working Conditions for Risk Identification, and then selects the critical positions using techniques such as the hierarchical analytical method or the criteria comparison matrix. The next step is to determine the ergonomic tools to be used per workstation, and once the evaluations are completed, the results of the risk level and the recommended actions are considered as a basis for improvement proposals. Of particular importance at this stage is the use of the Ruler tool for angle measurement. The improved positions are re-evaluated to verify the favorable changes from an ergonomic point of view and, in addition, risk level values are compared before and after the implementation of proposals. Finally, the methodology includes an implementation plan and an economic evaluation, to decide whether it is appropriate to invest in ergonomic improvements. Improvements are observed in accident indicators related to the presence of ergonomic risks, while evaluating the opportunity cost related to potential savings for the organization related to absenteeism, staff turnover, costs related to medical breaks and potential fines for non-compliance with legal regulations. Finally, it is concluded that there is a potential profitability and feasibility of the ergonomic interventions applied and proposed.

Cesar Corrales, Dennis Romero

Conference Proceedings

Ergonomic Risk Factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among Designers

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a significant occupational disease among intense computer users such as designers and other professionals. The objective of this research is to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of CTS among designers using a cross-sectional study. In this paper, questionnaires related to ergonomics risk factors were used. A total of 225 questionnaires distributed and Phalen’s test were conducted to determine CTS prevalence. The respondents background were from graphics design, multimedia, industrial, automotive, interior, Computer Aided Design (CAD) designers, architects and design engineers. The study showed that 20% of studied professional computer users had a symptom related to CTS. Graphic designers (OR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.05-53.98) and working more than 6 hours for side jobs in a week (OR: 2.74, 95% CI 1.16-6.49) were found highly associated with risks of CTS in this study. Further study on CTS severity symptoms and functional scale assessment using Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) suggested for future research for this study. The research is crucial for awareness and ergonomics CTS prevention planning for designers.Keywords: Ergonomic Risk Factor · Carpal Tunnel Syndrome · Phalen’s Test · Designers · Musculoskeletal Disorder · Repetitive Strain Injury

Kodsiah Mohd Juzad, Shamsul Bahri Mohd Tamrin, Rozanah Ab Rahman, Ng Yee Guan, Nurul Atikah Che Hasan

Conference Proceedings

Evaluation models of muscle fatigue recovery for manual demolishing tasks

Manual demolition tasks are heavy physical demanding tasks that may cause muscle fatigue accumulation and lead to work-related musculoskeletal injuries (WMSDs). Asking the operators to have a rest is a vital way to reduce muscle fatigue. How long the rest time would be fine for operators to recover becomes important. This study aims to establish muscle fatigue recovery evaluation models for manual demolition tasks to determine the recovery time of the operators. A muscle fatigue recovery test of manual demolition tasks was designed and organized. A total of 12 male college students were recruited. Their muscle force and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 min. ANOVA analysis was done to show the effects of the time period on the force and RPE. Correlation analysis was performed to show the relationship between measured parameters. Regression analysis was carried out to establish models. The study showed that time significantly influenced F(t) and RPE. With the progressing of the muscle fatigue recovery, the F(t) went up and the RPE went down. The time, F(t), and RPE were significantly related. Both F(t) and RPE models were established and assessed. The constructed models were reasonable and able to describe the characteristics of muscle fatigue recovery in manual demolishing tasks.

Cannan Yi, Hong Hu, Jiayuan He, Fan Tang, Kaiway Li, Yanfang Zheng, Huali Zuo

Conference Proceedings

Ergonomic risk in nurses and caregivers due to patient care and mobilization in senior centers

This paper contains a study related to the risk and ergonomic conditions in nurses and caregivers, who are involved in care and mobilization of patients in senior centers. The results were obtained trought: mixed approach methodology and descriptive scope. Pragmatic techniques and data collection instruments were utilized too, including documentary analysis of work procedures, direct observation, photographic records, and cards adapted to senior centers of the Assistance mobilization of hospitalized patients methodology (MAPO). Among the findings, the critical activities and tasks in the care and mobilization of dependent or non-cooperative patients (NC) and semi-dependent or partially cooperative (PC) have been identified. In addition, other determinations have been made, including: lifting factors, minor aids, wheelchairs, environment and training in the facilities or wards of the senior center, and the calculation of ergonomic risk level, both for nursing staff and caregivers. In sum, this article provides the scientific community with a detailed risk panorama of a population and a work environment that has seen little attention in the literature, allowing the design and development of improvement strategies or the validation of existing ones.

Albeiro Aguilar Olivera, Maye Catalina Neira Cardenas

Conference Proceedings

Volunteering at the Foggara work in Touat region: A study in Social ergonomics

Background:It is necessary to point out that ergonomics was late in paying attention to the issue of social factors and their effects on work. Carayon, (2021), urged ergonomists to take into account the influence of the social environment on work. Social environment is very important for the human being in which he practices his humanity and helps others to exercise their humanity.According to Amabile, et al. (1996) social environment includes two types of components: the positive components (autonomy/ freedom, encouragement of creativity, resources, and challenging work), and the negative components (lack of training, and management/ workers inconsistency). In this research, the researchers considered the positive components of social environment. Social ergonomics enhances the positive components of the social environment and at the same time it works to reduce the harmful effects of the negative components of the social environment. Social ergonomics achieves these goals through various methods including volunteerism. In this research, the focus will be on volunteer work. Researchers believe that volunteering strengthens social bonds, and makes individuals more connected to the community (Hsiao, et al. 2020). In addition, volunteering supports the positive elements of the social environment. “Twiza” is a form of volunteerism that is widespread in the Touat region (western area in Algeria). It means the assistance provided by members of a community, to members of another community, who are in dire need of this assistance. Objectives: This research aims to answer the following question: Can freedom /autonomy, encouragement of creativity, resources and challenging work enhance the positive components of the social environment in the Ksar?Methodology: Researchers applied the descriptive method, using a snowball technique sample which consisted of (29) volunteers from whom data were collected through a questionnaire and an Interview.Results and discussion: Individuals’ answers show that volunteer work does not affect individuals’ freedom, nor their sense of independence while working. The vast majority of respondents indicated that those who participate in voluntary work exercise their freedom naturally.Also, the volunteers show that supervisors during the volunteer work encourage them to be creative and innovative. This made them feel safe and secure.Furthermore, respondents agree that the resources required for volunteer work are available to everyone. None of the volunteers complained about the lack of resources or their unavailability. The respondents indicated that the availability of resources is a factor in the success of volunteer work.The respondents also praised the positive challenges that exist in volunteer work, especially in the maintenance of the Foggara. It is the work that made them feel they are achieving a noble patriotic duty. Conclusion: This research studied the topic of voluntary work, especially in the maintenance of Foggara in the Touat region and has found that volunteering enhances the social environment, and from the perspective of social ergonomics, that the environment is fitted to the individuals.References:Amabile, T. M., Conti, R., Coon, H., Lazenby, J., & Herron, M. (1996). Assessing the work environment for creativity. Academy of management journal, 39(5), 1154-1184.Carayon, P. (2021). Social and Organizational Foundation of Ergonomics: Multi‐Level Systems Approaches. Handbook of Human Factors and Ergonomics, 227-235.Hsiao, H. Y., Hsu, C. T., Chen, L., Wu, J., Chang, P. S., Lin, C. L., Lin M.N & Lin, T. K. (2020). Environmental volunteerism for social good: A longitudinal study of older adults’ health. Research on Social Work Practice, 30(2), 233-245.

Mohamed Mokdad, Bouhafs Mebarki, Mourad Semmani, Shaikha Aljunaidi

Conference Proceedings

The Ergonomics Edge for Small Enterprises – Case Studies from the State of Telangana, India

Terms like Ergonomic Fit, Ergonomic design, ergonomically correct / incorrect, etc have become synonymous with the term ‘Ergonomics’ and anyone interested increasing output / productivity without compromising on comfort. These terms have become a common phrase when talking about the design of tools and equipment or any design for that matter. But the word ‘Ergonomics’ has a great mystic around it because off its link with Engineering and industry especially when it comes to small industries. There are still a lot of apprehensions and doubts with the application of ergonomics at the small / medium enterprises. Hence there is need to understand and explain what constitutes good ergonomic design and how to understand what is "ergonomically in correct product" and choose products / changes which are not very expensive / involve major cost incurring for the small and medium enterprises. Four key physical risk factors associated with complaints of discomfort in the work environment such as: awkward postures, biomechanical stresses, repetition and force and environmental factors. For which the key is to eliminate the risk by providing a well-designed environment and affordable costs. It can also be mentioned as the process of adapting a space to meet human requirements which involves the study of how the human body functions in order to design spaces, furniture and devices which reduce fatigue and discomfort to improve operability and productivity along with affordability. While an increased emphasis on this concept, research data generated both corporate and at educational research centres over the past few years has shown that minor / minimum changes can amount to major benefits. With this objective, The department of Resource Management and Consumer Science (RMCS), College of Community Science (previously Home Science) has been teaching and conducting student research in the area of Ergonomics in various small enterprises in Telangana, India and this paper explains and highlights the importance of minor, small ergonomic cost effective interventions like extension of a handle, adding a sheath to the handle, increasing the height of the seating / workplace, improving the lighting, ensuring good ventilation have received good response from the users. This paper gives the details of all such research interventions done with the small and medium enterprises like weaving, metal and basketry works, classroom furniture etc, in the last 15years by the PG and PhD students and how the cost effective ergonomic edge was obtained or can be obtained and further demystify ergonomics for all.

Ratna Devarapalli, Vijaya Lakshmi Velivelli

Conference Proceedings

Thermal comfort prediction of aged industrial workers based on occupants' basal metabolic rate

The increasing workforce ageing brings benefits and challenges in industrial structures. Industries consider aged workers as essential resources thanks to their experience and skills. Conversely, the aged workers' progressive functional and cognitive decline reduce their tolerance to industrial environmental conditions, negatively impacting performance. In particular, after age 30, there is a progressive inefficiency in the physiological response to temperature changes. Therefore, thermal discomfort conditions have a worse impact as the workers' age increases. The Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) methodology is conventionally used to predict the human sensation of thermal comfort on a seven-point thermal sensation scale. Such methodology does not take account of progressive decline in thermoregulation capacity with age. This paper aims to fill this gap by proposing an analytic model for the prediction of thermal comfort. The Metabolic rate (M) parameter in the PMV equation is calculated from the Harris-Benedict equations revised by Mifflin and St Jeor (1990) for the Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), including the age factor for a more accurate evaluation of the workers' thermal sensation. The aim is to safeguard the aged workers' health and well-being to enhance their performance during work.

Alice Caporale, Francesco Gabriele Galizia, Lucia Botti, Cristina Mora

Conference Proceedings

Factors Affecting Perceived Work Performance Among Work- From-Home Filipino Workforce: An Integration of the Job Demands-Resources Theory

Work-from-home arrangements became the best response to the current world situation at the beginning of 2020; with the increase of employees partaking in this arrangement, along with this shift, inevitable effects on the workers’ perceived performance might be observed. This study was intended to make relevant and credible contributions in the analysis of work performance in the Philippine workforce. Thirty Filipino work-from-home online workers answered a self-administered online questionnaire with 73 questions (9 latent variables and 52 indicators). Structural equation modeling was utilized to analyze the variables and identified workload (W), employee well-being (EW), and organizational culture (OC) to have a substantial direct effect on job demands (JD), job resources significantly affected cynicism (C) and job demands directly affect both exhaustion (EX) and cynicism (C). Moreover, exhaustion was found to have a significant effect on perceived work performance (WP). Interestingly, job demands (JD) have no significant impact on job resources (JR). Recommendations provided in this study are expected to provide a reasonable scientific basis to improve the current work-from-home scheme in the Philippine workforce.

Yoshiki Kurata, Xyza Nicole Bandoquillo, Sophia Marie Hernandez, Ruth Zyrene Monge, Karlos Francis Dominique Tomas

Conference Proceedings

Millenials: Profiling the South African quantity surveyors of the future

The future growth and prosperity of an organisation or in this case of the professional discipline of quantity surveying in South Africa have strong links with effective succes-sion planning. The next generation will be measured on how well they will be able to build on the successes and stature of the preceding generations. The success and prosperi-ty that the South Africa quantity surveying profession will enjoy during the next decade or more rests on the shoulders of the current generation of new entrants and young profes-sionals recently established in the profession. This younger generation of professionals also belongs to the age group often referred to as millennials.Millennials are people born between 1980 – 2000 and who are therefore currently be-tween 21 to 41 years of age. In 2020, approximately 60% of all registered quantity sur-veyors in South Africa were millennials. This cohort will become the future leaders and visionaries to carry the profession of quantity surveying into the future.Contrasting to previous generations the millennials have grown up and were educated and trained in the electronic and digital age. Their differing roots may carry with it chal-lenges that may hamper effective communication with the current leadership of the pro-fession. The better the current leaders are able to know and understand the millennials in their fold, the more likely a successfull passing of the batten to the next generation will become. This study is based on a questionnaire from the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors, assisted by the University of Pretoria. The questionnaire was distributed on a national bases to all the South African quantity surveyors on the data base. The study will evaluate various aspects that describe the profile of South African mil-lennial quantity surveyors. The aspects that will be compared include the age, gender, race, and locational spread of the millenails who participated in the survey. Additional aspects such as their academic qualifications, nationality, registration status with the Council of South African Quantity Surveyors, and their length of term of current em-ployment will be used to provide a reasonably detailed description of the younger genera-tion of South African quantity surveyors.The above information will be of value to the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors, to the management of quantity surveying firms and also to institutions such as universities that offer accredited academic programmes for the training of quantity sur-veyors. The findings can also be shared with quantity surveying professions across inter-national borders to compare against the profiles of their millennial cohorts of quantity surveyors.

Danie Hoffman, Elzane Van Eck

Conference Proceedings

RULA and TRIZ methods for ergonomic analysis in the redesign of artisanal wine bottle filling workstation

In the north of Veracruz, Mexico, there are nano-SMEs or family businesses that carry out their processes in an artisanal way; being an area whose population is 60% of indigenous origin, their traditions in the elaboration of products are preserved. In this case study, the analysis of the bottle filling workstation of the honey wine-producing company is proposed. This work aims to carry out an ergonomic research based on an anthropometric study, the RULA method (rapid upper limb assessment) and TRIZ method (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving); to evaluate the postures that put the integrity of the craftsman at risk and based on the find the appropriate design parameters to propose an ergonomic redesign in the honey wine bottle filling station. As a result, it is expected to develop a proposal that meets the needs of users who carry out their filling process manually reducing discomfort in the extremities and Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs).

Lidilia Cruz-Rivero, Alejandro Del Angel-Dominguez, Maria Leonor Mendez-Hernandez, Ilse Alejandra Estevez-Gutierrez, Carlos Eusebio Mar-Orozco

Conference Proceedings

Occupational health care services for informal workers. From public policy to real practice

Informal workers make up the majority of active workers in the world; However, actual access to occupational health services is limited, precarious, and of minimal relevance for health promotion in the workplace. Occupational health programs have a strong emphasis on accidents and to a lesser extent on disease prevention. However, this approach is based on a deterministic vision that does not correspond to the real needs of workers with respect to their health.Some countries establish in their regulatory frameworks that occupational health and safety services are the responsibility of the employer; in other cases, the services are administered by a public regulatory framework that allows access to a greater number of workers without considering the characteristics of insertion into employment. In the case of informal workers, although they have access to some primary health care services that constitute the first contact with the health system, there is little recognition of the health problems derived from work at this level.In some sectors, such as agriculture and mining, public policies have been implemented to promote health care for informal workers. However, multiple problems hinder the continuity of the programs and the quality of care for workers. The training of health professionals to integrate actions on occupational health in primary health care is scarce. The development of competencies for health professionals and community agents is timely and necessary, not only for the identification and analysis of work-related problems but also for the promotion of health in the workplace. On the other hand, financing of health care programs is scarce, sometimes it depends on political agreements that do not materialize in public programs that are sustained over time.It is necessary to emphasize that a combined action is required between the state and institutions, which allows establishing conditions for comprehensive care from the promotion of health in the workplace. All of the above are under a vision that goes beyond the notion of accidents and occupational diseases as central axes of workers' health.

Luis Carlos Betancourt Sanchez, Vladimir Cuenca Cuellar

Conference Proceedings

Racial Dynamics at an Independent South African Educational Institution

Historically, education in South Africa has been beset by inequality. Over the last few decades, however, the landscape of South African government schooling has evolved considerably since its distinctive, racially-defined origins. This is largely due to reforms in the education sector, which played a key role in attempting to redress the injustices of the Apartheid system. Since its inception in 1929, the Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) has envisioned a value-based and quality education for all learners, irrespective of race, creed or culture. Thus, the media exposure in 2020, which revealed the prevalence of racist practices in approximately 26 prominent independent schools in South Africa was startling, as these discriminatory acts contradicted the vision of ISASA. One such school, which came into the spotlight was Excel College* (pseudonym), an independent school in Gauteng Province, South Africa. In response to the accusations, the school management launched an immediate investigation to address the allegations of racial discrimination against its students of colour. A whole-school Racial Intervention Programme (referred to as RDI – Respect, Diversity and Inclusivity) was designed and implemented early in 2021. This qualitative study, which comprised eight student leaders, sought to investigate how these student leaders experienced the intervention programme. The study sought to explore student leaders’ perceptions of the rationale behind the implementation of the Racial Intervention Programme (RIP), and of the racial climate in their school, and how they felt about the allegations of racism levelled against their school. The study further sought to investigate the extent to which student leaders felt their experience of the RIP had sensitised them to the need to promote racial inclusivity in their school. Data for the study were collected by conducting individual, online semi-structured interviews, using participants’ diaries, and holding a Focus Group session. The study drew on the tenets of the Critical Race Theory (De La Garza & Ono, 2016; Delgado & Stefançic, 2000; Dixon & Rousseau, 2006; Gillborn, 2015) and Paulo Freire’s conception of Critical Consciousness (1970). Proponents of the Critical Race Theory argue that race is neither a naturally nor biologically grounded feature of human beings; but rather, a socially constructed and culturally invented category that is used to oppress and exploit people of colour. Freire’s Critical Consciousness involves identifying contradictions in the experiences of others, through dialogue to contribute to change. The study confirmed that there were allegations of racism at the school, and that many of the students had been victims of – or had witnessed – an act of racial discrimination. Despite overwhelming support for RIP, the initiative was criticised for moving slowly, being teacher-centric and syllabus-driven; and that initially, it did not appreciate students’ contribution. However, during the seven weeks of the programme (which this study reports on), participants reported grasping the purpose of the programme – which was to encourage courageous conversations about inclusion, exclusion, racism and diversity.

Juliet Perumal, Andrea Dawson

Conference Proceedings

More than a Machine at Work: Exploring the Impacts of Technological Change on Mental Health

With the current technological transformations being developed, the focus seems to rely mainly on the increase of productivity and on promises of the reduction of physical constraints for workers. However, in the analysis of the new human-machine relationships induced by technological advances, other less visible impacts should be debated, namely for workers’ health and well-being. In a garment factory in Portugal, characterized by rigorous quality demands, sectored and short production cycles, with production times controlled by the minute, this study aims to analyze human-machine interactions from the point of view of their protagonists. A qualitative and participatory methodology was used (observations; individual and collective interviews; and moments of auto-confrontation). The results show how these work situations potentiate a "contained" suffering due to the lack of space for its verbalization, which ends up being managed individually, under penalty of being considered unfit for the work’s current demands.

Liliana Cunha, Daniel Silva, Sarah Maggioli

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Effects of cognitive ability and social presence on performance of mathematical calculation and recognition memory tasks

For individuals, cognitive ability is often an important reference for predicting education level, academic achievement, and work ability. In many cases, people usually work or study in a group situation with co-actors. For example, many students study together in a classroom, or workers work together in a workstation. People in a group interact and influence each other, which means they become each other’s social presence. Some studies found that the cognitive ability of group members affected the overall performance of the group. Therefore, it is also necessary to consider the individual cognitive ability factors in the research of social facilitation effects. We are curious about whether group members’ difference in cognitive abilities would moderate the effect of social presence on his task performance when they complete tasks in a group situation. In other words, we are interested in the effects of social presence on the intensity or direction of social facilitation exerting on people with different cognitive abilities when completing cognitive tasks.This paper investigated the effects of individual cognitive ability, social presence and task difficulty on the performance of mathematical calculations and recognition memory tasks. The mathematical calculation tasks and memory tasks are two kinds of typical cognitive tasks that people often need to deal with in work or study. Moreover, the extant studies verified that the social facilitation effect existed in those tasks. Hence, this study selected them as experimental tasks respectively. A three-factor mixed design experiment was conducted. The Cognitive Ability factor had two levels: low and high, which were distinguished by the score of the Cognitive Ability scale. The difficulty factor had two levels: easy and hard. The social presence factor had two levels: alone and group. In the alone condition, the participant did the task alone in a room. In the group condition, two participants conducted the experiment face-to-face in the room at the same time. There were 4 experimental conditions of two within-subject factors (2 difficulty × 2 social presence). Every participant needed to finish a trial of easy tasks and a trial of hard tasks in both alone and group conditions. The trials were randomly and balanced assigned in a counterbalanced design to the 8 trials across the experiment used. Thirty-six participants participated in this study. The response time and accuracy rate were used to assess the task performance. The results indicated that, although cognitive ability had a significant main effect on the performances, the interaction effect between cognitive ability and social presence on task performance was not significant. There existed a two-way interaction effect between social presence and task difficulty on response time of both tasks. The findings provide useful information for work organization and task allocation in a group work.

Zhecheng Wang, Ruifeng Yu

Conference Proceedings

Toxic Workplace Environment

This study aims to explore environmental toxicity in the workplace. The study highlights essential aspects of the toxicity environment, such as the definitions, causes, and impacts. The breach of contract in an organization is considered an important aspect that affects the employees’ mood and attitude in the workplace. The failure of duties and responsibilities of an organization may greatly significantly affect employees psychologically. The violation of company-employees agreement plays a significant role in changing employees' views and feelings. The research study has shown that the best intervention measures in the workplace help reduce adverse effects of thetoxic environment in an organization. The study suggests that intervention skills such as team- building, cultural diversification helps in reducing social behavior such as harassment, discrimination, and bullying, thus reducing toxicity harm. Several graphs have been used to explain the different types of stress triggered by various aspects such as working nature, workplace relationships, and threats. The organization's code of ethics helps guide the employees and management to make reasonable judgments, thus eliminating unethical issues. The study highlighted some crucial recommendations which when embraced, may enhance a suitable workplace, thus minimizing workplace toxicity.

Asmaa Alsereidi, Amal Almarzooqi, Saed Amer

Conference Proceedings

Towards Data-Driven Dairy Farming in Thailand: A Preliminary Survey of Farmer’s Needs Based on In-Depth Interviews

Currently, Thailand’s dairy industry faces five critical problems: aging farmers, shortage of laborers, lack of successors, low productivity, and oversupply of milk. The consensus among researchers and dairy farming experts is that the root cause of the problems is the lack of in-depth data (individual cow yield per milking). Without data, the growth of the dairy industry is stagnating, resulting in dairy farming as a career being perceived as economically unstable. Ultimately, this results in aging farmers, shortage of laborers, and lack of successors as more young farmers decide to pursue other career paths. Additionally, the lack of data prevents effective management of dairy farms and the dairy supply chain leading to two problems. Following the design-thinking approach, in-depth interview is chosen as the method of choice to empathize directly with the users and obtain insights regarding their problems and needs, especially those related to data management. The interviews were conducted with farmers from nine different farms selected based on their size, milking system, and location. The result showed that most selected farms do not record the individual cow yield per milking. Furthermore, milk collection centers require farmers to deliver milk within a specific time after it is milked. This further discourages data collection as it is time-consuming. Additionally, the lack of growth increased cow feed prices and diseases among many other factors further dissuade farmers from investing in technology to assist them in collecting the data. Therefore, the insights obtained from the interview will be the cornerstone in coming up with a practical solution to the current data problems.

Gorn Perapalanunt, Jirat Viriyataranon, Chinnakrit Channok, Bhumibhat Imsamran, Ampan Laosunthara, Danai Jattawa, Thanathip Suwanasopee, Skorn Koonawootrittriron, Takumi Ohashi, Natt Leelawat, Jing Tang

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Bases and fundamentals of Obradorism in Mexico

Obradorismo is a progressive approach to government that seeks to reduce inequality and combat corruption. It arose in Mexico with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and bases its foundations on the moral economy and ethics of public administration. It is based on honesty and the correct actions of public servants. Contrary to neoliberalism, the obradorismo focuses on the efficient administration of the public treasury in favor of the people. Obradorismo highlights the customs and traditions of Mexico, takes up the importance of history and its values of the culture of the original peoples. Currently, Obradorismo presents itself as the current of progressive and democratic social thought in America.

Cesar Guevara, Marco Antonio Rojo Gutiérrez, Ana Karina Guevara

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Ergonomic Intervention in Pharmaceutical Distribution Work in India using the Principles of Anthropometry

Background:Workplace ergonomics deals in fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of its user population. Ergonomic interventions are the measures taken to create a more user-friendly workplace following the ergonomic principles. Anthropometry, the study of statistical variation of human body dimensions and its implications on design, needs to be considered while designing equipment and workplaces and doing the ergonomic intervention. Objective:This study aimed to conduct an ergonomic intervention for workers in a pharmaceutical distribution unit to reduce the frequency of bending and kneeling postures. Method:The ergonomic intervention was done in three stages. In stage one, an assessment of work was done to understand work postures, work pattern, and duration of work. In stage two, a workstation was designed using ergonomics and anthropometry. In stage three, the workstation was introduced to workers. Intervention design:Using the principles of ergonomics, anthropometry, and guidelines for standing work, a standing workstation was designed. Standing measurements for elbow height, eye height, and length and height of arm reach front and arm reach side were considered. 5th, 95th, or 50th percentile of anthropometric measurements for the male population were utilized based on the anthropometric guidelines for reach, clearance, and range of motion and guidelines for designing a standing workstation.Result: The ergonomically designed worktable consisted of two primary components: an elevated worksurface and two side tables attached to it. The elevated horizontal platform or main worktable helped in eliminating excessive back and legs bending, twisting, and squatting on the floor. Two side tables provided space to keep packed goods. Other components of the worktable were footrests and storage space. Footrests were provided to support the body while working in a standing position. Drawers and shelves helped in storage and organizing the workplace. Nylon bushes were given to stabilize the workstation on uneven floors. Foldable side tables and removable overhead shelf provided flexibility in shifting and maintaining the workstation.

Pallavi Murarka, Manjit Chauhan

Conference Proceedings

Biomechanical risk assessment of curbside waste collection round through heart rate and GPS data

Many scientific papers report that curbside waste collection is a work with high biomechanical load. Our previous papers highlighted the biomechanical risk in this activity and we identified these main risk factors: bad design of equipment, landscape and the number of households covered. The high variability of this task makes it hard to apply standardized protocols for biomechanical risk assessment. For this new experience, we used pulse rate monitors to assess cardiac effort during a full day of pick-up in two different days for two operators gathering bio-waste and glass. The first worker pick-up the waste in the same area on both days. The second worker pick-up waste on zones with different morphology and different urban density. We also recorded GPS data from the second worker. We analyzed heart rate calculating Relative Cardiac Cost (RCC) and heart rate distribution. The first worker performed the task in the municipal urban area and reported a RCC of 43 and 45%. Both values correspond to a heavy work level on the Chamoux scale. The second worker reported RCC values of 36% when collecting in the municipal urban area (quite-heavy work level) and 23% in the non-urban hilly area (moderate work level). The heart rate of the second worker exceeded 140 bpm 7.7% of the time and ranged from 110 to 130 bpm for 72.6% of the time in the municipal area. In the non-urban area, 140 bpm heart rate was never reached and heart rate values were between 110 and 130 bpm for 16.6% of the time. No differences resulted in the first worker due to the type of waste collected. For the second worker, we found a relevant difference in heart rate distribution, probably not related to the type of waste but rather to the number of households and the morphology of the landscape. GPS data seem to support these findings. In the municipal area, the worker moved 17.6 km at a mean speed of 4.8 km/h. In the non-urban area, the worker moved 40.84 Km at a mean velocity of 7.8 Km/h. The higher speed and more than twice the distance covered highlight that the worker spent much more time driving the truck in the non-urban zone than in the municipal one resulting in a reduced biomechanical workload. In conclusion, combined data from heart rate monitor and GPS allowed us to highlight the different workloads between the two zones, municipal and non-urban. We suggest alternating the workers between them to reduce biomechanical risk.

Alessio Silvetti, Lorenzo Fiori, Antonella Tatarelli, Adriano Papale, Alberto Ranavolo, Giorgia Chini, Tiwana Varrecchia, Ari Fiorelli, Francesco Draicchio

Conference Proceedings

Working capacity and general functional state during a 20-day Arctic expedition (on the example of the Arctic Floating University)

The climatic and geographical conditions of the Arctic region and social and living conditions of the expeditionary form of work can have a negative impact on the activities and well-being of people carrying out their professional activities in these conditions. The person functional state reflects the main activity level of the main physiological systems (autonomic nervous system, etc.) in a certain period of time. Daily monitoring of human’s functioning cardiovascular and nervous systems indicators is an effective technology for the prevention of psychological maladjustment, deterioration of health, and undesirable situations under the influence of unfavorable factors. The study purpose is to describe the working capacity and general functional states dynamics of expedition members during the expedition period in the Arctic. Research methods are instrumental psychophysiological methods, psychological questionnaires and multivariate statistical analysis methods. This study was conducted on research vessel within 20 days in the morning and in the evening. The study involved 39 people (average age – 33,6 ± 2 years). The majority of employees experience an increase in their working capacity against the background of a decrease in the level of their general functional state at the beginning of the expedition period. The middle of the expeditionary period is characterized by the instability of the working capacity level. With the end of the active research work period, the general functional state of many participants is associated with a period of rest and recovery. In the dynamics of the autonomic nervous system and the sympathetic nervous system states prevails over the parasympathetic according to the data of objective (instrumental psychophysiological diagnostics) and subjective methods (psychological methods). Some of the results correlate with our previous studies, which were devoted to the study of the shift workers' human functional state.

Yana Korneeva, Mariya Tunkina, Natalia Simonova, Anna Trofimova

Conference Proceedings

Types of consumed drinks at work during summer and winter seasons among foresters: A pilot study

Dehydration is very common among workers both at the beginning and end of work. Persistent or even worsening dehydration after work indicates insufficient fluid intake at work. The aim of the study was to determine the differences in the type of consumed drinks during work between summer and winter periods in foresters. The study was carried out in summer (n = 10) and in winter (n = 10) among male foresters. Subjects completed a questionnaire regarding the amount of drinks consumed during 1 working day. It was observed that in summer the most consumed drink was water. Similarly, in the winter period, the volunteers drank water the most, but its consumption was almost twice lower than in the summer (p>0.05). On the other hand, tea consumption was 2/3 higher in winter compared to summer (p>0.05). There were also observed large, but nonsignificant, variations in volume of fluid intake between workers.In conclusion, the season of the year may affect workers’ choice of drink type. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:This paper is published and based on the results of a research task no. IV-38 carried out within the scope of the statutory activity, financed in the years 2021-2022 from the funds of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

Joanna Orysiak, Magdalena Młynarczyk, Piotr Prus

Conference Proceedings