Rehabilitiation - 94 entries found

Your search criteria are

• Rehabilitiation

2011

CIS 11-0637 Unite health and safety guide
Aimed at the 40.000 safety and health representatives of a large trade union, this guide explains their role within their organizations, with reference to the relevant legislation of the United Kingdom, namely: Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (see CIS 95-1930); Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (see CIS 02-1507); Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (see CIS 93-351); Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 (see CIS 08-754); Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (see CIS 06-1259); Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (see CIS 03-1023); Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (see CIS 93-6). Other topics addressed include safety inspections, bullying, stress, gender aspects of safety and health, disability and rehabilitation
Unite the Union, Unite House, 128 Theobalds Road, London WC1X 8TN, United Kingdom, July 2011, 130p. Illus. Index.
Unite_health_and safety_guide.pdf [in English]

CIS 11-0339 Shaw W.S., Reme S.E., Linton S.J., Huang Y.H., Pransky G.
3rd place PREMUS best paper competition: Development of the return-to-work self-efficacy (RTWSE-19) questionnaire - Psychometric properties and predictive validity
The 19-item return-to-work self-efficacy (RTWSE-19) scale is a new self-report measure intended to assess workers' beliefs of their current ability to resume normal job responsibilities following pain onset. The aim of this study was to evaluate the factor structure, internal consistency, and predictive and concurrent validity of RTWSE-19 among workers with acute low-back pain. It involved 399 patients consulting for acute work-related low-back pain, who completed an original 28-item version of the new scale along with concurrent measures of pain, functional limitation, activity avoidance, workplace physical demands, and pain catastrophizing. The assessment was repeated at the second visit and work limitations and duration of sickness absence were assessed by questionnaire at 3-month follow-up. Exploratory factor analysis was used to assess content validity of the scale, and scores were compared to concurrent pain measures and with disability outcomes at three months. It was found that the RTWSE-19 offered adequate reliability and validity to measure the confidence of workers to meet job demands, modify job tasks, and communicate needs to co-workers and supervisors. When assessed 1-2 weeks after pain onset, the scale is predictive of disability outcomes.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Mar. 2011, Vol.37, No.2, p.109-119. 56 ref.

CIS 11-0338 Fassier J.B., Durand M.J., Loisel P.
2nd place PREMUS best paper competition: Implementing return-to-work interventions for workers with low-back pain - A conceptual framework to identify barriers and facilitators
Workplace-based return-to-work interventions for workers with low-back pain are more effective than usual healthcare. Nevertheless, the implementation of such interventions usually encounters many barriers within healthcare systems, workplaces and insurance systems. The aims of this study were to construct a conceptual framework to identify barriers and facilitators, and to validate this conceptual framework empirically. A literature review was conducted to identify barriers and facilitators. A selection process was used to identify core dimensions. The framework was validated through multiple case studies in two regions of France. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus groups with key participants. Findings are discussed.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Mar. 2011, Vol.37, No.2, p.99-108. Illus. 78 ref.

CIS 11-0335 Morrison J.
The role of the GP in keeping people in work
This editorial argues in favour of improved cooperation between general practitioners (GPs) and occupational health specialists and employers in the United Kingdom, in particular for the early identification of patients with psychological distress who are vulnerable to the risk of becoming permanently dependant on sickness benefits, while the most favourable decision would be to facilitate their return to work.
Occupational Medicine, 2011, Vol.61, p.74-75. 16 ref.
The_role_of_the_GP.pdf [in English]

2010

CIS 11-0333 Young A. E.
Return to work following disabling occupational injury - Facilitators of employment continuation
Return to work following occupational injury is an important rehabilitation milestone; however, it does not mark the end of the return-to-work process. Following a return to the workplace, workers can experience difficulties that compromise their rehabilitation gains. This study used data gathered during one-on-one telephone interviews with 146 workers who experienced a work-related injury that resulted in their being unable to return to their pre-injury job, but who returned to work following an extended period of absence and the receipt of vocational services. Numerous return-to-work facilitators were reported, including features of the workers' environmental and personal contexts, as well as body function, activities, and participation. Influences that stood out included a perception that the work was appropriate, supportive workplace relationships, and a sense of satisfaction/achievement associated with being at work. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Nov. 2010, Vol.36 No.6, p.473-483. 48 ref.
Return_to_work_following.pdf [in English]

CIS 10-0499 Huet Machado J.M., de Castro Lacaz F.A., eds.
Disability, occupational rehabilitation and workers' health
Incapacidade, reabilitação profissional e saúde do trabalhador [in Portuguese]
This special issue on disability, occupational rehabilitation and workers' health contains articles on rehabilitation programmes and methods applied in Brazil to improve the return to work of disabled workers. Main topics covered: rehabilitation programmes implemented in a number of regions of Brazil; facilitators and barriers of return to work; inclusion of workers with disabilities in the labour market; elements for the development of public policy for occupational rehabilitation in Brazil.
Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, Jan.-June 2010, Vol.35, No.121, p.6-178 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref.

2008

CIS 10-0797 Loisel P., Durand M.J., Shapiro S., Constandriopoulos A.P., Beaudet J., Imbeau D.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of an early collaboration programme for the rehabilitation of construction workers with low back pain
Evaluation de l'efficacité d'un programme de collaboration précoce en réadaptation chez les travailleurs de la construction ayant une dorso-lombalgie [in French]
The construction sector is associated with a particularly high rate of work-related low back pain. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an early-stage health management programme developed jointly by the Quebec Commision for occupational health and safety (Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail du Québec - CSST) and a Montreal hospital, particularly with respect to the return-to-work of disabled workers. Two groups of workers were compared, one group receiving the early-stage programme and the other the usual treatments. As it is being implemented, the programme was found to be no more effective than the usual treatment for accelerating consolidation, for reducing the costs and for improving the workers' state of health. Possible reasons are discussed.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2008. ix, 67p. Illus. 72 ref. Price: CAD 9.45. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
Rapport_R-573.pdf [in French]

CIS 09-291 Suoyrjö H., Hinkka K., Oksanen T., Kivimäki M., Klaukka T., Pentti J., Vahtera J.
Effects of multidisciplinary inpatient rehabilitation for chronic back or neck pain: A register-linkage study of sickness absences and analgesic purchases in an occupational cohort
To determine the effects of multidisciplinary in-patient rehabilitation for chronic back or neck pain on sickness absences and analgesic purchases, a prospective study was conducted in 10 towns in Finland. Participants were 34,838 local government employees, and included 418 participants in rehabilitation for chronic back pain and 195 participants in rehabilitation for chronic neck pain between 1994 and 2002. The rate of very long (>21 days) sickness absence among the chronic back pain rehabilitees was 3.03-fold compared to the non-rehabilitees in the year before rehabilitation. This ratio declined to 1.88 three years after rehabilitation. No further decline in the rate of very long sickness absence was observed in the subsequent years. For chronic neck pain rehabilitees, no evidence of the effectiveness of rehabilitation on sickness absence was found. In relation to consumption of analgesics, the mean rate of defined daily doses declined among the back and neck pain rehabilitees after rehabilitation compared to the non-rehabilitees.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2008, Vol.65, No.3, p.179-184. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 08-1322 Durand M.J., Vézina N., Baril R., Loisel P., Richard M.C., Ngomo S.
Workers' margin of manoeuvre during and after a gradual return to work programme: Definition and relationships with the return to work
La marge de manœuvre de travailleurs pendant et après un programme de retour progressif au travail: définition et relations avec le retour à l'emploi [in French]
Several studies confirm that rehabilitation programmes that include an ergonomic intervention in an actual working environment accelerate the return to work and improve the quality of life of workers suffering from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The objectives of this study were to define and clarify the indicators which need to be taken into consideration for evaluating this margin of manoeuvre in relation to the return to work of people with MSDs. The study involved analyses of the cases of 18 workers with sickness absenteeism due to MSDs having participated in a rehabilitation programme by a group comprised of an occupational therapist, an ergonomist, a psychologist and a physician. Findings are discussed.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2008. ix, 58p. Illus. 63 ref. Price: CAD 8.40. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-566.pdf [in French]

CIS 08-1492 Hoffmann-Richter U., Hoffmann H., Pfister S., Siegenthaler F., Schade V., Znoj H.
Psychosocial factors as reversible components in social insurance systems
Psychosoziale Faktoren in den Sozialversicherungen als Kippfigur [in German]
Les facteurs psychosociaux, figures réversibles des assurances sociales [in French]
This article discusses mental disturbances caused by occupational accidents or diseases, which represent an obstacle to rehabilitation. It presents a Swiss project entitled EBEPS (German acronym for identification and treatment of mental disorders in the context of occupational accidents and diseases), whose aim is to simplify the processing of complex rehabilitation cases. The project involved insured workers whose cases were followed up using "New Case Management" approaches, and who answered a questionnaire on their accident or diseases, as well as on various psychosocial factors and their perception of responsibilities in 2007. The questionnaire was submitted again one year later. The information collected enabled the identification of predictors of rehabilitation. The project will allow the development of an instrument that improves the early identification of workers who could have rehabilitation problems.
Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, 2008, No.79, p.35-46. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 08-831 Molina Villaverde R., Feliu Batlle J., Villalba Yllán A., Jiménez Gordo A.M., San José Valiente B., González Barón M.
Occupations within a cohort of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients
Actividad laboral en una cohorte de pacientes con linfoma no Hodgkin [in Spanish]
This study involved 37 non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients occupationally employed at the time of diagnosis; its aim was to study the factors influencing their return to work or rehabilitation. The patients were interviewed with the help of a questionnaire covering epidemiological, clinical and occupational aspects. 86% of the patients had to give up their occupation after the start of their treatment and 32.5% had not returned to work at the end of their treatment. No relationships were found between the type of work, aftereffects of the disease or treatment, and work capacity at the end of the treatment.
Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Mar. 2008, Vol.LIV, No.210, p.19-24. 26 ref.

CIS 08-850 Baril R., Durand M.J., Coutu M.F., Côté D., Cadieux G., Rouleau A., Ngomo S.
MSDs - The impact of representations of the disease, pain and healing on the work rehabilitation process
TMS - L'influence des représentations de la maladie, de la douleur et de la guérison sur le processus de réadaptation au travail [in French]
The objective of this project was mainly to document the representations of disease, health and healing that affect the rehabilitation process for workers with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) involved in a return-to-work process. The researchers investigated existing conceptual frameworks and related measurement tools. They then collected evidence from workers who had been absent from work for several months due to an MSD. The report situates the contribution of the workers' representations and strategies in their path towards healing and a return to work. It shows the importance of systematically integrating these perceptions into the evaluation of each case so that the intervention can be anchored to the patient's reality, and the quality of care thus be improved. The specific matching of the clinical approach to the workers' representations is a guarantee of progress towards re-employment.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2008. iv, 106p. Illus. Approx. 200 ref. Price: CAD 10.50. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/r-544.pdf [in French]

2007

CIS 07-1500 Taskila T.
Cancer survivors at work - Work-related factors associated with their employment, work ability and social support from the work community
Due to the improved prognosis of many forms of cancer, an increasing number of cancer survivors are able and willing to return to work after their treatment. This study investigated the problems that cancer survivors experience on the labour market, as well as the socio-demographic and psychosocial factors associated with their employment and work ability. The results show that the majority of the survivors are able to return to work. There is, however, a group of cancer survivors who leave work life early, have impaired work ability due to their illness, and suffer from lack of support from their work place and the occupational health services.
Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2007. 82p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 23.00.
https://oa.doria.fi/bitstream/handle/10024/7033/cancersu.pdf?sequence=1 [in English]

CIS 07-1333 Durand M.J., Berthelette D., Loisel P., Beaudet J., Imbeau D.
Construction workers suffering from lumbar back pain - Evaluation of the implementation of an early collaboration rehabilitation programme
Travailleurs de la construction ayant une dorso-lombalgie - Evaluation de l'implantation d'un programme de collaboration précoce en réadaptation [in French]
The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of a participatory programme aimed at the rehabilitation of workers suffering from low back pain in the construction industry in Quebec. It involved 29 workers suffering from low back pain. Data were collected by means of questionnaires, interviews and medical examinations. Rehabilitation interventions aimed at workers suffering from low back pain were found to constitute a complex problem. For such interventions to be effective, it is necessary to act simultaneously at several levels. Various research projects are proposed for improving the efficiency of rehabilitation interventions in occupational settings.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal H3A 3C2, Quebec, Canada, 2007.vi, 92p. Illus. 129 ref. Price: CAD 10.60. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-489.pdf [in French]

2006

CIS 08-854 Hanson M.A., Burton, K., Kendall N.A.S., Lancaster R.J., Pilkington A.
Health and Safety Executive
The costs and benefits of active case management and rehabilitation for musculoskeletal disorders
This study on the cost of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) to employers sought to identify the evidence on cost-effective case management and rehabilitation principles that could be applied by employers and healthcare providers to help workers with MSDs to stay at work or return to work. It was carried out in the form of a literature survey, followed by interviews and focus groups involving healthcare professionals and organizations. A wide range of programmes were found to be implemented or in the process of implementation. Overall, case management methods were found to cost-effective, with best practice rehabilitation approaches having potential to significantly reduce long term sickness absence. Other findings are discussed.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. xiv, 180p. Illus. Approx. 250 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr493.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-847 Back to work, back to health - Return to work for the retail industry
This booklet provides guidance for employers and supervisors in the retail sector on helping injured workers recover and return to work. Contents: responding to injuries; working with doctors and health care services; working with the occupational safety and health institution of British Columbia (WorkSafeBC); promoting return to work; sample letters and information sheets.
Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, [c2006]. 20p. Illus. 8 ref.
http://www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_and_safety/by_topic/assets/pdf/back_to_work_back_to_health.pdf [in English]

CIS 06-1499 Lecomte C., Savard R.
The effects of a counselling intervention on the rehabilitation of injured workers at risk of chronicity
Les effets d'une intervention de counseling sur la réadaptation de travailleurs accidentés à risque de chronicité [in French]
In collaboration with rehabilitation consultants from the Quebec safety and health commission (CSST), researchers developed a rigorous and systematic intervention model whose aim was to properly equip these professionals to deal with complex and long-term cases. The aim of this project was to evaluate the effectiveness of the model in the context of CSST activities. A total of 19 consultants from the commission and 62 workers suffering from occupational injuries participated. Subjects were assigned at random either to a consultant having been trained in the new intervention model or to a consultant who used the older procedure. The degree of rehabilitation was assessed after six months. It was found that new model significantly improved rehabilitation and resulted in a higher rate of satisfaction in the workers affected.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2006. xiv, 180p. Illus. Approx. 300 ref. Price: CAD 15.90. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-448.pdf [in French]

2005

CIS 06-1072 Godin J.F., Baril R., Massicotte P.
Statistical profile of workers undergoing rehabilitation for 2001-2002
Portrait statistique des travailleurs en réadaptation pour 2001-2002 [in French]
This report, based on administrative data from the Commission for Health and Safety at Work in Quebec (Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail du Québec, CSST), provides a statistical profile of workers undergoing rehabilitation following an occupational injury. Analysis of the data indicates that the sex and age of a worker, the size of the enterprise, back pain and musculoskeletal disorders, relapse, and jobs in the secondary sector are important elements of the characteristics of participants in the rehabilitation programme.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. v, 57p. 3 ref. Price: CAD 7.49. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-440.pdf [in French]

2004

CIS 06-236 Kurkus-Rozowska B., Serafin R.
Technical equipment for occupational rehabilitation of disabled persons
Pomoce techniczne w rehabilitacji zawodowej osób niepełnosprawnych [in Polish]
This booklet describes equipment for the occupational rehabilitation of handicapped workers and examines the principles of workplace design for handicapped workers. Includes classification systems of technical equipment provided in standard PN-EN ISO 9999 : 2002.
Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2004. 36p. 13 ref.

CIS 05-485 Loisel P., Durand M.J., Baril R., Langley A., Falardeau M.
Decision-making to facilitate a return to work - Exploratory study of aspects of decision-making in an interdisciplinary work rehabilitation team
Décider pour faciliter le retour au travail - Etude exploratoire sur les dimensions de la prise de décision dans une équipe interdisciplinaire de réadaptation au travail [in French]
Therapeutic return to work, an innovative approach to the case management of workers suffering from musculoskeletal disorders, is based on interaction and consensual dialogue among many specialists, including an interdisciplinary rehabilitation team, workplace stakeholders, workers themselves and attending physicians. While several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of such a global approach, the decision-making processes underlying the achievement of consensus have not been clearly established. The objective of this research project was to conduct a case study of this complex decision-making process and to identify the strategies most likely to ensure the success of therapeutic return to work. Different models of decision-making were developed and a system of ten values on which the team is based was identified, the most important one being partnership.
Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2004. ix, 48p. Illus. 37 ref. Price: CAD 6.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-393.pdf [in French]

CIS 04-561 Mrizek N.
Musculoskeletal diseases and work: Evaluation, disability and rehabilitation at work
Troubles musculo-squelettiques et travail: évaluation, invalidité et réinsertion professionnelle [in French]
Musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) constitute not only a health problem, but also an economic burden for workers, employers and insurance institutions. This article addresses aspects of evaluation, disability and rehabilitation of workers suffering from MSDs. Contents: definition of MSDs; magnitude of the problem; evaluation of the degree of disability; occupational rehabilitation; disability of persons suffering from MSDs; recognition of the occupational nature of MSDs and compensation (Tunisian regulatory framework, examples of Switzerland and the Netherlands).
SST - Santé et Sécurité au Travail, Jan. 2004, No.28, p.20-26. Illus. 24 ref.

CIS 04-351
Health and Safety Executive
Managing sickness absence and return to work - An employers' and managers' guide
Reducing the frequency of cases of long-term sickness absence (defined as an absence of four weeks or more) can bring employers significant savings by reducing sick pay, recruitment costs and the adverse effects of high workloads on the colleagues of absent workers. The longer the period of absence, the less likely is a return. It is estimated that 20% of the workers with sickness absenteeism of six weeks will remain off work and eventually leave the workforce. The Confederation of British Industry estimates that 33% of working days lost due to sickness are accounted for by long-term sickness absence, yet they involve only 5% of employees. Most tend to be not seriously ill, but suffer from depression, anxiety or musculoskeletal complaints. This guidance is aimed at employers to assist them to better manage sickness absence and hasten successful returns to work.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Oct. 2004. viii, 39p. Illus. 53 ref. Price: GBP 9.95.

2003

CIS 05-236 Anema J.R., Steenstra I.A., Urlings I.J.M., Bongers P.M., de Vroome E.M.M., van Mechelen W.
Participatory ergonomics as a return-to-work intervention: A future challenge?
A participatory ergonomics programme applied to the disability management of workers suffering from low-back pain (LBP) is presented. It involved 35 workers who were absent from work for periods of 2-6 weeks due to LBP. Questionnaires were addressed to the workers, to their occupational physicians, who had received prior training in the programme, and to participating ergonomists. Workers, their supervisors and the ergonomists jointly identified a number of ergonomic solutions to be presented to the employers. Most workers were satisfied with the programme and reported a stimulating effect on return-to-work. Almost half of the proposed solutions were implemented. The main obstacles to implementation were technical or organizational difficulties and physical disabilities of the worker.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2003, Vol.44, No.3, p.273-281. Illus. 33 ref.

CIS 03-1494 Thomson L., Neathey F., Rick J.
Health and Safety Executive
Best practice in rehabilitating employees following absence due to work-related stress
This survey identifies 12 specific examples of best rehabilitation practices following the absence due to stress-related illness, and highlights the various factors which influence their effectiveness. It discusses costs and benefits of the various rehabilitation practices. It considers the historical development of the rehabilitation practices within the case study organizations, and describes the key factors that lead to the development of procedures. It concludes that this type of information will encourage other employers to develop their own rehabilitation practices.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 147p. 57 ref. Price: GBP 20.00.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr138.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-1265 Vocational rehabilitation and employment of persons with disabilities
This CD-ROM published by the ILO's InFocus Programme on Skills, Knowledge and Employability addresses issues of vocational rehabilitation and employment of persons with disabilities. Contents: tests and statistics on the vocational rehabilitation and employment of persons with disabilities in 23 African, Asian and European countries and information on each of these countries (objectives and strategy, government measures and programmes; legal framework; consultation of representative organizations, disability compensation system, employment, adjustment to work and workplace); instruments of intergovernmental organization (full texts and extracts); selected ILO publications on the vocational rehabilitation and employment of persons with disabilities.
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. CD-ROM.

CIS 03-1192 Karjalainen K.
Multidisciplinary interventions for low back pain: Evaluation of effectiveness
The aim of this study was to review the effectiveness of multidisciplinary rehabilitation of low back pain and to develop a feasible intervention for patients with subacute low pain not requiring operative treatment as well as to assess its effectiveness, cost and modifying factors. 164 patients were randomly assigned into three groups: 56 underwent a mini-intervention (patient's history, examination by a physician and a physiotherapist, exercises and advice), 51 a mini intervention plus a worksite visit and 57 a conventional treatment. Pain, quality of life, satisfaction of care, sick leave, consumption of health services and costs were measured at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. The results show that the mini-intervention is cost-saving and effective for most patients with subacute low back pain. A worksite visit supplementing the intervention does not seem to produce any beneficial effects.
Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Publication Office, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2003. 98p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 03-599 James P., Gunningham I., Dibben P.
Health and Safety Executive
Job retention and vocational rehabilitation: The development and evaluation of a conceptual framework
The purpose of this study was to identify the issues which employers need to address in partnership with their employees in order to facilitate the continued employment of workers with physical or mental impairment through the provision of vocational rehabilitation. Phase one consisted of the development of a framework document to identify the main issues, and the presentation of this document to a conference of stakeholders. Subsequently, in phase two, a review of the available research evidence was conducted concerning the validity of this framework document and the extent to which employers do currently undertake the types of activities in it. Overall, the evidence lent some support to the propositions put forward in the framework document.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. x, 87p. Illus. 131 ref. Price: GBP 15.00.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr106.pdf [in English]

2002

CIS 04-580 Kobielski W.
Rehabilitation in the social insurance system of farmers
Rehabilitacja lecznicza w systemie ubezpieczenia społecznego rolników [in Polish]
Review and assessment of the activities of the Polish Agricultural Social Insurance Fund, with emphasis on the establishment and improvement of the rehabilitation system for farmers. The legal rules regulating the activity on prevention and rehabilitation in rural areas are listed. Numerical details concerning the financial effectiveness of the therapeutic rehabilitation of farmers are presented.
Ubezpieczenia w Rolnictwie - Materiały i Studia, 2002, Vol.16, No.4, p.32-38.

CIS 03-1680 Performing arts under the spotlight
Les arts de la scène sous les projecteurs [in French]
This article describes in broad terms the new labour-employer agreement for the performing arts sector in the Netherlands. In the context of this agreement, a plan is prepared that refers to the expected physical and psychosocial workloads, amplified noise detrimental to health and the mode of reintegration foreseen in the event of disability. This plan, which constitutes an integral part of the agreement, lists the various activities and their risk factors, and specifies quantitative prevention goals.
Travail et bien-être, Dec. 2002, Vol.5, No.5, p.33-37. Illus.

CIS 02-1710 Tudor O.
Have health will work
In the United Kingdom, more than 27,000 persons permanently lose their capacity for employment each year, following disabling illness or injury. Many would no doubt be able to return to work if effective rehabilitation systems were in place. This article discusses various possibilities for improving the employability of disabled persons and facilitating their return to work, based on responses to a questionnaire addressed to trade union safety representatives in the United Kingdom.
Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 2002, Vol.20, No.8, p.24-26. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 02-1706 Kushnir T., Luria O.
Supervisors' attitudes toward return to work after myocardial infarction or coronary artery bypass graft
Although workplace supervisors may play a significant role in the return-to-work process, there are very few scientific references to this effect. This study surveyed supervisors' reactions, attitudes and worries concerning the return-to-work of employees after myocardial infarction or coronary artery bypass graft. A total of 58 supervisors of employees who had returned to work responded to a self-report questionnaire based on interviews with occupational physicians and nurses, heart patients and experienced supervisors. The supervisors believed they contributed significantly to the successful occupational rehabilitation of heart patients and emphasized the importance of ongoing consultations with occupational physicians. Yet many of the respondents considered such employees to present problems because their occupational functioning was often impaired initially and they required special attention and support.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2002, Vol.44, No.4, p.331-337.13 ref.

CIS 02-1661 Linz D.H., Shepherd C.D., Ford L.F., Ringley L.L., Klekamp J., Duncan J.M.
Effectiveness of occupational medicine center-based physical therapy
A one-year study was performed to evaluate discharge from therapy and return-to-work outcomes from rehabilitation services offered at four occupational medicine centres for work-related musculoskeletal injuries. The mean number of visits before discharge from therapy for 699 patients was 45% less than a national benchmark (mean visit number, 5.7±4.2 versus 10.5±9.1). Return-to-work outcomes at discharge from therapy showed that 94% had returned-to-work. A telephonic satisfaction survey failed to identify complaints associated with therapy. Assuming that reduced visit numbers would be reflected in a proportionate decrease in lost workdays, the programme saved employers approximately USD 1.4 million, or USD 2000 per patient. The authors attribute the improved outcomes to early therapy using active rather than passive techniques and an emphasis on patient education and home exercise programmes.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2002, Vol.44, No.1, p.48-53. 6 ref.

CIS 02-1496 Goplerud E., Cimons M.
Research Report - Workplace solutions: Treating alcohol problems through employment-based health insurance
A study was conducted to investigate the extent to which employment-based health insurance plans in the US can be used to offer rehabilitation programmes to workers suffering from alcoholism. In general, health insurance plans are willing to pay for less thorough treatment of alcoholism than they are willing to pay for other illnesses (including mental illness). Only seven states require parity (the same level of benefits for treating substance abuse as for other illnesses): Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont and Virginia. The effectiveness of treatment of alcoholism in these states, and among workers whose employers voluntarily offer parity, is much higher than among workers with unequal coverage.
George Washington University, Center for Health Services Research and Policy, 2021 K St. NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20006, USA, Dec. 2002. 28p. Illus. 36 ref.
http://www.pewtrusts.com/pdf/hhs_alcohol_workplace.pdf [in English]

CIS 02-634 Accidents at work and employability: Factors influencing successful reintegration of injured workers
Accidents du travail et employabilité: facteurs clés pour une bonne réintégration des travailleurs victimes d'un accident de travail [in French]
In 1998 in the European Union there were 4.7 million occupational accidents that resulted in more than three days of absence from work. Approximately six percent of these accidents resulted in three months or more of incapacity. Contents of this information sheet on factors influencing the reintegration of occupationally injured workers: persons at risk (by sector, sex, age, company size and employment status); employers' attitudes towards reintegration; key factors in the return to work.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain, 2002. 4p. 4 ref.
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/forum/4/en/FORUMN4-EN.pdf [in English]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/forum/4/fr/FORUMN4-FR.pdf [in French]

2001

CIS 01-783 Pomper DeHart J.
On-site occupational health and rehabilitation - A model for the manufacturing and service industries
The idea of the on-site model of occupational health clinics, rehabilitation, fitness or wellness facilities in industry has evolved through the use of methods that enable injured workers to get back to work faster while saving money for the employer and cutting workers' compensation costs. This book draws extensively on the author's personal experiences in setting up such services in the manufacturing and service industries.
Marcel Dekker Inc., 270 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA, 2001. xii, 276p. Illus. 41 ref. Index.

2000

CIS 00-1304 Research activities - 2000
Attività di recerca - 2000 [in Italian]
Report on the activities of a major Italian institute specializing in occupational health and rehabilitation matters. A list of publications by the Institute and its staff is included.
Fondazione "Salvatore Maugeri", Via Ferrata 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy, 2000. 271p. Illus. 1,193 ref. Index.

CIS 97-87 Fromaigeat D.
Alcoholism in the workplace: From addiction to rehabilitation through dialogue
L'alcoolisme en milieu professionnel: de la dépendance à la réinsertion à travers le dialogue [in French]
Summary of this booklet on alcoholism in the workplace: nature and extent of the problem (external and warning signs, overview, statistics); the phenomenon of alcohol dependence; physical and psychological signs of alcoholism; consequences of alcoholism (reduced work capability, increased risk of accidents, impact on fellow workers and the enterprise, physiological deterioration, cost for the employer), risk factors at work; prevention in the workplace (role of the employer, stages in the prevention process and in the actions of the employer); legal aspects in Switzerland; information, outside help and support in Switzerland.
Office cantonal de l'inspection et des relations du travail, case postale 3974, 1211 Genève 3, Switzerland, 2th ed., 2000. 33p. Illus. 16 ref.
http://www.geneve.ch/ocirt/doc/alcool.pdf [in French]

1999

CIS 00-1336 Mital A., Shrey D.E., Govindaraju M., Broderick T.M., Colon-Brown K., Gustin B.W.
Job-simulated phase II cardiac rehabilitation training program
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common cause of death in the world, as well as the main cause of physical disability. The majority of those affected by such disability are under the age 65. Rehabilitating these individuals, therefore, is a top priority. These two articles describe a phase cardiac rehabilitation training programme that simulates events of actual jobs and that significantly enhances return to work chances of coronary heart disease survivors without compromising their aerobic conditioning. The cardiac rehabilitation training programme, based on elements of physical work, is described. It is shown that such a programme not only improves CHD survivors' work-related physical capabilities, but also improves their physiological conditioning and vastly increases their chances of returning to work when compared with a conventional phase II cardiac rehabilitation programme.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1999, Vol.24, No.5, p.515-543. Illus. 45 ref.

CIS 00-955 Conte-Grand A.H., Rodríguez C.A.
Coverage of occupational hazards - Manual describing current practices and possible alternatives
Cobertura de los riesgos del trabajo - Manual con experiencias actuales y alternativas [in Spanish]
Topics: analysis of accident causes; Argentina; Brazil; Chile; Colombia; comment on directive; comment on law; cost of safety; European Communities; hazard evaluation; ILO; legislation; national organization; occupational accidents; occupational diseases; occupational safety and health; paraguay; plant safety and health organization; rehabilitation; role of government; training manuals; Uruguay; workmen's compensation.
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1999. 283p. Illus. Bibl.ref. + CD-ROM for Windows 95 or higher (needs browser: Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer; screen: 800x600 or higher, 1024x784 recommended)

CIS 00-391 Wood G., Ying F., Morrison D., Munrowd D.
The role of GPs in the workers compensation system
The aim of the study was to analyse the role of general practitioners (GPs) in the state of Western Australia in facilitating the return to work of injured workers. It was based on a linked sample of 95 GPs and 2,548 workers' compensation claims involving patients who had been treated by these GPs. This linked sample was used to investigate the relationship between GPs' interventions and attitudes and the return-to-work outcomes of their patients. The main finding is that GPs who are "proactive" in their relationship with employers are associated with higher successful return-to-work outcomes. This evidence confirms the hypothesis that GPs who engage in both medical treatment services and workplace-based services will be more successful in returning long-term work injury patients to employment.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Aug. 1999, Vol.15, No.4, p.311-324. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 99-1842 Kenny D., Kable S., Kroon M., Quinn S., Edwards S.
Employer compliance with rehabilitation
The level of employer compliance with current rehabilitation legislation in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, was investigated. The sample was selected to be representative across industries, geographical location and size of company. Results of the survey, based on 612 responses, were compared with an employer survey (93 responses) conducted in the Hunter region of NSW. Findings indicate that there is a high level of awareness of and compliance with current rehabilitation legislation among employers. However, the level of compliance is strongly related to the size of company; those with fewer than 20 employees were much less likely to comply than those with more than 20 employees. Companies of all sizes were more likely to adopt a rehabilitation programme issued by the insurer than to develop their own programme, indicating that employers are compliant with, rather than committed to, occupational rehabilitation. Strategies that directly assess the needs of small companies should be developed to facilitate better management of workplace injury. Topics: Australia; legislation; New South Wales; questionnaire survey; rehabilitation; responsibilities of employers; role of insurance institutions; role of labour inspection; safety and health organization; small enterprises; workmen's compensation.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 1999, Vol.15, No.3, p.253-262. 1 ref.

1998

CIS 01-1698 Arokoski J.P.A., Nevala-Puranen N., Danner R., Halonen M., Tikkanen R.
Occupationally oriented medical rehabilitation and hairdressers' work techniques - A one-and-a-half year follow-up
This study examined changes in work techniques and musculoskeletal symptoms after occupationally oriented medical rehabilitation arranged for 21 female hairdressers who were experiencing neck-shoulder or back pain but were still able to work. Analyses of working postures and questionnaire data were obtained at the beginning of the courses and a year-and-a-half later. The participants worked with their back bent and twisted or their arms at or over shoulder level more seldom at the end of the follow-up than at the beginning of the rehabilitation. Subjective work-related physical and mental strain had decreased by 45.4% and 27.1%, respectively, and subjective neck and back pain by 40.0% and 45.3%, respectively. This study suggests that occupationally oriented rehabilitation can have significant long-lasting effects on the work techniques and subjective well-being of rehabilitated persons.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.43-56. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 00-1614 van der Weide W.E., Verbeek J.H.A.M., van Dijk F.J.H., Hulshof C.T.J.
Development and evaluation of a quality assessment instrument for occupational physicians
A review of the literature was conducted in order to develop a method for the assessment of the quality of occupational rehabilitation for workers with low back pain. The method was applied to health care and university workers with low back pain who were rehabilitated by their occupational physicians. Assessment of quality of care is regarded as a four-step approach. Firstly, guidelines should be developed and implemented. Secondly, indicators for quality and criteria to demarcate good and deviant quality were derived from the guidelines. Thirdly, a method for data collection was chosen. Finally, quality was scored. For occupational rehabilitation, there was some deviance from the guidelines for most cases, especially in continuity of care with a deviant rate of 47%. Other indicators deviated from 1.4%-17.4%. Assessing the quality of the process of occupation health care with this method is an asset to present methods, but more specific criteria are needed for a more sensitive assessment.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1998, Vol.55, No.6, p.375-382. 72 ref.

CIS 99-1033 Battevi N., Bergamasco R., Girola C.
Criteria for the reintegration in the workforce of workers with musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limbs, based on preliminary practical experience
Results are presented of a preliminary study of the return to work of some 100 workers affected by musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limbs and their reallocation to jobs with low exposure. The trial involved: providing a definition of the criteria for the characterization of "accommodating" jobs; identifying jobs that meet these criteria; classifying affected workers according to the type and severity of the disorder; matching workers to the job best suited to them; training of workers and supervisors; follow-up of the returned workers in organizational and clinical terms. Results indicate that when workers return to the workforce in jobs that fully meet defined criteria, there is a significant improvement in symptoms. Topics: job study; medical supervision; programme evaluation; rehabilitation; repetitive strain injury; risk awareness; transfer to other work; upper extremity disorders; workplace design.
Ergonomics, Sep. 1998, Vol.41, No.9, p.1384-1397.

CIS 99-569 Åbjörnsson G., Pålsson B., Bergendorf U., Karlson B., Österberg K., Seger L., Ørbæk P.
Long-term follow-up of psychological distress, social functioning, and coping style in treated and untreated patients with solvent-induced chronic toxic encephalopathy
Patients with organic solvent-induced toxic encephalopathy (TE) were followed up seven years after the application of an intervention programme. They were also compared with untreated TE patients diagnosed at the same time and with unexposed referents. Both TE groups had unchanged function in neuropsychological tests. Members of the treated group had improved their social functioning and reduced their mental stress but were not any better than the untreated patients. Compared with referents, the TE patients continued to live with increased psychological distress and used predominantly emotionally focused strategies to cope with their problems. This can be a cause for concern in family life and can also make gainful work impossible. Topics: case-control study; exposure evaluation; human behaviour; long-term study; neuropsychic effects; neuropsychic stress; organic solvents; psychological effects; psychological tests; rehabilitation; social aspects; toxic encephalosis.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1998, Vol.40, No.9, p.801-807. 32 ref.

CIS 98-505 Taylor G., Easter K.M., Hegney R.P.
Australian Centre for Work Safety
Enhancing safety: Australian national curriculum - Rehabilitation and compensation 2 workbook
Topics: Australia; rehabilitation; responsibilities of employers; training course; training material; workmen's compensation.
Training Publications of Western Australia, Prospect Place, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia, 1998. iii, 35p. 4 ref.

CIS 98-503 Taylor G., Easter K.M., Hegney R.P.
Australian Centre for Work Safety
Enhancing safety: Australian national curriculum - Rehabilitation and workers' compensation 1 workbook
Topics: Australia; history; legislation; rehabilitation; responsibilities of employers; training course; training material; workmen's compensation.
Training Publications of Western Australia, Prospect Place, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia, 1998. iii, 20p. 6 ref. Plus reading material 45p.

1997

CIS 99-688 Seppälä P., Luopajärvi T., Nygård C.L., Mattila M.
From experience to innovation - IEA '97: Volume 4 - Musculoskeletal disorders and rehabilitation
Proceedings of the 13th Triennial Congress of the International Ergonomics Association held in Tampere, Finland, 29 June-4 July 1997. Volume 4 covers: musculoskeletal disorders (risk factors and epidemiology, exposure assessment, surveillance and prevention); and rehabilitation (design of the environment, products and techniques, performance assessment and diagnosis, theoretical and vocational considerations). Topics: backache; conference; epidemiological aspects; ergonomics; expertise; exposure evaluation; Finland; handicapped workers; manual lifting; medical supervision; musculoskeletal diseases; rehabilitation; repetitive work; risk factors; upper extremity disorders; work posture.
Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Publication Office, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 1997. xii, 603p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 97-1891 The physician's role in helping patients return to work after an illness or injury
This policy statement by the Canadian Medical Association addresses the role of physicians in assisting their patients to return to work after injury or illness. The physician is required to recognise and support the importance of the employee-employer relationship in assisting and promoting the return to work. Key principles concerning the physician's roles are outlined along with requirements for respecting patient confidentiality and managing medical information.
Canadian Medical Association Journal, Mar. 1997, Vol.156, No.5, p.680A-680C.

CIS 97-1683 Wasserman D.E., et al.
Whole-body vibration exposure and occupational work-hardening
This editorial briefly reviews epidemiologic studies on the association between whole-body vibration (WBV) and back disorders. It considers the use of simulated WBV exposure as part of a therapeutic "work hardening" rehabilitation process for back-injured workers, based on the premise that if workers practice a task, they can remind and retune the associated pool of motoneurons to perform it in a better manner. Occupational therapy treatments and approaches to motor-skill acquisition in the rehabilitation of physical dysfunction are discussed. The authors consider that there is no situation in which WBV exposure can be deemed to be therapeutic, and voice concern at its use as part of a therapeutic work hardening process.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.403-407. 56 ref.

CIS 97-1721 van der Weide W.E., et al.
An audit of occupational health care for employees with low-back pain
Guidelines for the occupational rehabilitation of workers with low-back pain were developed, and criteria for good practice in occupational rehabilitation were formulated on the basis of these guidelines. The criteria were subsequently used in an audit of the medical records of 40 workers with low-back pain. The number of patients who received care consistent with the guidelines was compared with the number of patients eligible to receive that kind of care (performance rate). Performance rates were measured for 6 rehabilitation procedures and ranged from 21% to 90%. The method is recommended as a means of auditing and improving the quality of occupational rehabilitation.
Occupational Medicine, July 1997, Vol.47, No.5, p.294-300. 25 ref.

1, 2 | next >